Sea swimmers urged to be cautious about taking new year dips off British coast
RNLI tells people to consider their health, cold water effects and weather conditions after disappearance of two swimmers on Christmas Day
TL;DR
- RNLI warns of cold-water shock dangers for swimmers in water 15°C or below.
- Average sea temperature around the UK and Ireland is 6°C to 10°C in winter.
- Two swimmers disappeared on Christmas Day in Budleigh Salterton while attempting to help another person.
- RNLI advises caution, awareness of personal abilities, and assessment of sea conditions.
- Recommendations include swimming with others, wearing wetsuits, bright caps, and tow floats.
- Call emergency services if a swimmer is in difficulty, do not enter the water yourself.