Four Guided Swims In – And What a Start to the Season!

We have officially kicked off our guided swim season, and what a fantastic start it has been. With four fabulous guided swims already under our belts, it's been wonderful to welcome both familiar faces and complete newcomers into the water.

This start to the season has coincided with a significant heat wave, which has understandably made our lakes, rivers, reservoirs, and coastline look incredibly inviting. When temperatures rise, water can seem like the perfect place to cool off. However, as beautiful and refreshing as open water can be, it is important to remember that it deserves our respect.

Every year, warm weather brings an increase in people entering the water, often on impulse. Sadly, many do not appreciate the hidden dangers that can exist beneath the surface. Open water is very different from a swimming pool. Water temperatures can remain surprisingly cold even during hot weather, currents can be stronger than they appear, and conditions can change quickly.

One of the biggest risks is cold water shock. Even on the hottest day, entering cold water suddenly can cause an involuntary gasp response, rapid breathing, and panic. This can happen to strong swimmers and non-swimmers alike. It's one of the reasons we always encourage people to enter the water gradually and give their bodies time to adjust.

Another common misconception is that if someone can swim well in a pool, they will automatically be comfortable in open water. The reality is often very different. Reduced visibility, waves, wind, currents, weeds, and the sheer vastness of open water can feel overwhelming for first-time swimmers. Confidence and experience are built gradually, and that is where guided swims can make such a difference.

Over the years, we have been privileged to help swimmers enter the world of open water safely and confidently. From total beginners taking their very first strokes outside of a pool to experienced swimmers looking to improve their skills, every swimmer's journey is unique.

We are particularly passionate about water safety education for children. Through our safety sessions, we teach young people how to understand different water environments, recognise hazards, and most importantly, learn how to float to live.

The Float to Live message is simple but incredibly powerful:

If you unexpectedly find yourself in difficulty in the water:

• Tilt your head back with your ears submerged.
• Relax and try to control your breathing.
• Move your hands gently to help stay afloat.
• Spread your arms and legs.
• Once your breathing is under control, call for help or swim to safety if you are able.

These few simple actions can save lives.

As we move further into the season, there are a few key safety reminders that are worth sharing:

• Never swim alone.
• Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return.
• Check weather and water conditions before entering.
• Wear a brightly coloured swim hat so you can be seen.
• Consider using a tow float for increased visibility and emergency buoyancy.
• Enter the water gradually rather than jumping straight in.
• Know your exit points before you start your swim.
• If in doubt, don't go out.

One of the things we love most about guided swimming is seeing confidence grow. The swimmer who arrives nervous and uncertain often leaves with a huge smile and a sense of achievement they didn't think was possible. Open water swimming can be one of the most rewarding activities imaginable, offering physical benefits, mental wellbeing, adventure, and a wonderful sense of community.

Our goal has always been to help people enjoy these benefits while developing the knowledge and skills needed to stay safe. The more we educate ourselves and those around us, the safer our waters become for everyone.

We're looking forward to many more guided swims throughout the season, introducing more people to open water and continuing to spread important water safety messages along the way.

Enjoy the sunshine, respect the water, and we hope to see you at one of our swims very soon.

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