Safety is paramount, Immersing yourself in cold water carries risk, before venturing into open water be responsible for yourself and others.

Don’t drink alcohol or take drugs and swim
Assess your environment - check for safe entry and exits
Be aware of your limits
Take a tow float and mobile phone in a waterproof case if possible
Allow yourself to be seen, wear a bright coloured swim cap
Check the weather and tide times
Swim with a buddy
Dress for the conditions
Get dressed quickly, after your dip, layer up and take a hotwater bottle and hot drink
Remember to breathe

Cold Water Shock Response is caused by rapid cooling of the skin which then activates the sympathetic nervous system. Know your limit in the cold water.

To call the coastguard in the UK, you can call 112 or 999 and ask for the coastguard.

Check out the links below for more information.