{"id":2303,"date":"2021-11-01T15:07:00","date_gmt":"2021-11-01T15:07:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/meandthewater.ie\/?p=2303"},"modified":"2021-11-26T16:46:13","modified_gmt":"2021-11-26T16:46:13","slug":"rnli-top-tips-for-better-cold-water-dips","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/meandthewater.ie\/2021\/11\/01\/rnli-top-tips-for-better-cold-water-dips\/","title":{"rendered":"RNLI | Top Tips for Better Cold Water Dips"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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\"This<\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Kevin Rahill has over 20 years\u2019 experience of working in prevention with the RNLI,<\/strong> including managing and supporting volunteers, and engaging with partners, like Irish Coast Guard, Water Safety Ireland, HM Coastguard, RLSS, and local authorities. He was also crew member at Wicklow Lifeboat Station.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Kevin knows accidents happen, and that open water is unpredictable, but by following his advice below, you can always enjoy the water more safely, and understand exactly what to do if something does go wrong.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Before you go<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Going for a swim in cold, open water can be exhilarating, but it\u2019s not without risk. So if it\u2019s your first time open water swimming or cold water dipping, it\u2019s important to speak to a health care professional to discuss the risks of cold water immersion before you go.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Where you can, arrange to go with a buddy. Open water swimming is much more fun with someone else, and you can look out for each other. It\u2019s also good to tell someone on shore where you are going and when you will be back. They\u2019ll be able to call for help<\/span> if you are overdue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are new to an area, or new to open water swimming or dipping, don\u2019t be afraid to ask someone who is more experienced about the area and any potential hazards. They may also know of alternative spots when your chosen area is not safe due to wind or tide.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Choose your spot<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When at the coast, it\u2019s best to choose a lifeguarded beach and swim between the red<\/span> and yellow flags<\/span>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If there is no lifeguard cover, make sure you know:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

  • Where you can enter and exit the water<\/li>
  • Your location \u2013 are there any hazards you need to be aware of?<\/li>
  • What the tide and currents are doing – check the tide times before entering the water<\/li>
  • How to spot rip currents<\/li>
  • What to do if you get caught in a rip current – Don\u2019t try to swim against it. If you can stand, try to wade rather than swim. Next, swim parallel to the shore until free of the rip and then head for shore. Raise your hand and shout for help.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n

    Have the right equipment<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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