25/06/2026
Reposting today as this is so important in this heat! Please share! 🙏
☀️ Hot day? Don’t just jump in! 🌊
When temperatures soar, the temptation to dive straight into cool water can be hard to resist. But that sudden plunge can be dangerous.
Cold water shock occurs when your body is suddenly immersed in cold water. This can trigger:
😮 An involuntary gasp reflex – if your head is underwater when this happens, you can inhale water.
💨 Rapid, uncontrollable breathing – making it difficult to stay calm or swim effectively.
❤️ A sudden increase in heart rate and blood pressure – which can be extremely dangerous, particularly for people with underlying heart conditions.
🤯 Panic and disorientation – making it harder to make good decisions or get to safety.
💪 Loss of muscle control and swimming ability – cold water can quickly reduce coordination and strength.
🌊 Increased risk of drowning – many cold water fatalities occur in the first few minutes after entering the water because of the shock response, not because of hypothermia.
Even on the hottest summer days, lakes, reservoirs, rivers and the sea can be much colder than the air temperature.
If you’re swimming outdoors:
🌡 Check the temperature of the water - it can be armer in shallow water and on the surface but MUCH colder just a foot or two deeper.
🏊 Enter the water gradually - Do not jump in until you have acclimatised.
💨 Give your body time to adjust, get in slowly staying within your depth.
👥 Swim with others where possible, at least have a shore watch.
🛟 Use a tow float in open water.
👀 Check for submerged objects before you dive in.
📍 Know your exit point before you get in.
🚩 Look for venues with life guards.
⚠️ Keep away from weirs and waterfalls.
Take a moment. Acclimatise. Then enjoy your swim safely.
☀️ The air might be 30°C.
🌊 The water might be 15°C.
⚠️ Respect the difference.
