Getting into open water is fun and rewarding, it can be life changing and deeply satisfying. It can also be dangerous.
Anyone can call themselves a guide, coach or cold water therapist. There is currently no regulator who is checking up on these people. It is up to you to check whether the people you are placing your trust in are really able to look after you. Yoga teachers, breathwork instructors, personal trainers, life coaches, mountain guides are not qualified to take you into the water.
So, how do you choose?
Look for a provider with a reputable qualification. Be aware that someone with a certificate or diploma from the internet is not going to keep you safe. Look out for a qualification from one of the following organisations:
Check they have an appropriate safety qualification and are insured. This should be stated on their website, if you can’t find it, ask. First aid qualifications are renewed every two to three years so check your provider is up to date. Look for one of the following:
SWIMMING WITH A SOCIAL GROUP?
This is a great way to meet like minded folks and get in the water together. But, these groups do not usually have safety cover or insurance so here’s a few guidelines to help you.
Don’t get in if:
Find out more at:
Home – Outdoor Swimming Society Outdoor Swimming Society
RNLI Open Water Swimming Safety Advice And Tips
If you want to learn more about open water safety and getting in the water please message me.
Happy swimming and stay safe!
Anyone can call themselves a guide, coach or cold water therapist. There is currently no regulator who is checking up on these people. It is up to you to check whether the people you are placing your trust in are really able to look after you. Yoga teachers, breathwork instructors, personal trainers, life coaches, mountain guides are not qualified to take you into the water.
So, how do you choose?
Look for a provider with a reputable qualification. Be aware that someone with a certificate or diploma from the internet is not going to keep you safe. Look out for a qualification from one of the following organisations:
- STA (Swimming Teachers Association)
- RLSS (Royal Life Saving Society)
- RNLI (Royal National Lifeboat Institute)
- Swim England
Check they have an appropriate safety qualification and are insured. This should be stated on their website, if you can’t find it, ask. First aid qualifications are renewed every two to three years so check your provider is up to date. Look for one of the following:
- Outdoor Emergency First Aid (16 hours)
- RLSS Open Water Lifeguard
- RLSS National Water Safety Management Programme
- STA Open Water Safety
SWIMMING WITH A SOCIAL GROUP?
This is a great way to meet like minded folks and get in the water together. But, these groups do not usually have safety cover or insurance so here’s a few guidelines to help you.
- If you have a heart condition, untreated high blood pressure or a history of migraines, check with your GP before you get in the water.
- If you are dipping for therapeutic reasons you only need to stay in for a short time, especially in the winter. Cold water is classed as below 15 degrees - this is Scotland just about all year round! Ice swimming is classed as 5 degrees and below and many fresh water venues in Scotland are at this temperature in the winter.
- There is NO health benefit to staying in for five or ten minutes compared to one or two, instead you are putting yourself at risk of hypothermia.
Don’t get in if:
- You are ill/under the weather.
- You have been drinking alcohol or taken drugs.
- You have been strenuously exercising.
- It doesn’t feel right.
Find out more at:
Home – Outdoor Swimming Society Outdoor Swimming Society
RNLI Open Water Swimming Safety Advice And Tips
If you want to learn more about open water safety and getting in the water please message me.
Happy swimming and stay safe!