8 tips for beginners

1 BEWARE THE CHILL

The main risk for a wild swimmer is getting too cold, and open water may be colder than you anticipate. Water temperatures can vary with season and altitude, while a recent rainfall can also bring temperatures down.

2 GET IN GRADUALLY

Avoid the initial cold shock and ‘gasp reflex’ by entering the water slowly and increasing your exposure to the open water gradually.

3 DON’T STAY IN TOO LONG

Avoid becoming dangerously cold by not lingering in the water for too long. Remember, you don’t have to stay in the water for a long time to have a lovely time.

4 DON’T BE TOO AMBITIOUS

Refrain from attempting a full lake or tarn crossing. As you get cold, less blood goes to your arms and legs. Instead it’s directed to your core – and this can cause even strong swimmers to fatigue quicker than usual. This is called cold incapacitation.

5 DON’T PANIC, FLOAT ON YOUR BACK

If you feel yourself panicking in the water, turn onto your back and float – if you’re vertical in the water you will sink faster. Take a couple of breaths, calm down and then make your way back to shore.

6 STAY CLOSE TO THE SHORE

Avoid getting into trouble out of your depth by not venturing too far from the banks of a river, lake or tarn. Often, the most interesting stuff is by the side anyway.

7 DON’T JUMP IN…

…without checking the water depth first. Water levels can rise and fall dramatically, particularly in mountainous areas. Rocks on the beds of water-bodies can move too.

8 TAKE CARE AROUND WATERFALLS

When water is mixed with air the water loses its buoyancy, meaning it’s harder to stay afloat in aerated water than still water. Also, be aware that fast-running water trying to squeeze through rock gaps can create a stronger current.