Sea swimmers urged to be cautious about taking new 12 months dips off British coast | UK climate

People planning on welcoming the brand new 12 months by braving the British climate for a swim within the sea have been warned of the hazards after the disappearance of two swimmers on Christmas Day.

The Royal National Lifeboat Institution mentioned the consequences of cold-water shock mixed with climate circumstances pose a danger to anybody getting into water that’s 15C or under. At this time of 12 months, the common sea temperature across the UK and Ireland is 6C to 10C.

The warning follows the disappearance of Matthew Upham, 63, and one other man throughout a Christmas Day swim within the Devon seaside city of Budleigh Salterton.

A variety of individuals have been safely dropped at shore, however Upham and the opposite man, in his 40s, couldn’t be discovered. Of the individuals rescued, two have been appeared over by paramedics and one was taken to hospital as a precaution.

Gareth Morrison, the top of water security for the RNLI, mentioned on Tuesday: “We know this time of year many people take part in festive and new year dips or continue to take part in regular winter swims.”

He mentioned swimmers ought to concentrate on their talents and thoroughly assess sea circumstances earlier than getting into the water. First-time swimmers ought to seek the advice of their GP earlier than trying to swim in open water.

“With the sea temperatures still dropping and reaching their coldest around March, the effects of cold water, combined with weather conditions and any personal health issues, should be taken seriously before venturing in,” Morrison mentioned.

“Avoid swimming alone; consider going with others or joining a group so you can look out for each other. We’d recommend wearing a wetsuit to keep you warm and increase your buoyancy, together with a bright swim cap and tow float to make yourself visible to others and use in an emergency.”

Morrison mentioned individuals who spot a swimmer in issue ought to name emergency companies relatively than enter the water themselves.

Upham and the second man, who has not been publicly named, have been reported to have gone lacking after going into the water to attempt to assist a lady in issue.

“The most important thing to remember is if you are in any doubt stay out of the water and if you or anyone else does get into trouble in or on the water, please call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard,” he mentioned.

PA Media contributed to this report