Open water swimming can feel pretty intimidating, whether you've been swimming for years or when you’re just starting out.
Maybe you’re training for your first triathlon and the swim leg is the part you’re secretly dreading. Or maybe you’re a casual dipper, looking to spend more time in lakes and seas but unsure where to start.
From nervous first-timers to seasoned pros, and here are a few solid swim safety tips can make all the difference in helping you feel confident, calm, and in control out there.
Swim safety should be top of your priority list to make sure you stay safe in unpredictable waters unfamiliar conditions.
Use designated open water areas if possible
If it’s your first time heading out for an open water swim, don’t just pick a random lake and dive in. Spend some time getting to know the area.
Ideally, go to an official open water swimming venue, somewhere that’s recognised for safe swimming and has the right infrastructure in place. These sites often have safety kayaks and lifeguards on duty, which makes a huge difference when you’re starting out.
Not only are they there to keep an eye on swimmers in case anything goes wrong, but they’re also a brilliant resource for first-timers. Most places will give you a short induction or safety briefing when you arrive.
It’s a great way to brush up on the basic, things like understanding entry and exit points, spotting markers, what to do if you feel overwhelmed, and how to signal for help.
Being in a controlled, well-managed environment lets you focus on your swim, rather than worrying about currents, boat traffic, or whether someone’s even going to notice if you stop mid-stroke.
Prepare for Cold Water ( Even in Summer)
Cold water swimming is still having its moment, and once you’ve done it a few times, it’s easy to see why. It’s energising, a bit addictive, and you feel amazing afterwards. But if you’re new to open water, here’s the truth: open water is always colder than you expect.
Even in summer, lakes and the sea don’t warm up like a swimming pool does. And in the colder months? It can feel absolutely Baltic. That initial gasp when you get in? Totally normal. But it’s also why you need to be prepared.
If you’re someone who feels the cold (most of us do), having the right kit makes all the difference.
A proper neoprene wetsuit will help keep your core warm and buoyant, and if you’re planning to be in the water for more than a quick dip, it’s worth investing in neoprene gloves, boots, and a hat too.
It’s also okay to ease into it. Cold water swimming is a bit of a shock at first, and that’s part of the challenge. Take your time, don’t stay in too long to begin with, and always listen to your body.
Be Visible In The Water
One of the simplest but most important things you can do when swimming in open water is make sure you’re visible.
Unlike a pool, where lifeguards are right there and the water’s crystal clear, open water can be busy, murky, and unpredictable. For open water swim safety, wearing a bright, colourful swim cap is a must, it helps lifeguards, kayakers, and other swimmers spot you easily, especially in choppy or low-light conditions.
But don’t stop there. If you really want to stay safe (and give yourself some peace of mind), using a tow float is a brilliant idea. These brightly coloured, lightweight, inflatable floats attach to your waist and trail behind you without affecting your stroke.
They’re often mandatory at open water swim venues... Not only do they make you more visible from a distance, but you can grab hold of them and float if you need to stop and catch your breath
Acclimatise to the water and focus on breathing
You don't need to jump right into open water!
Always slowly walk into the water to give your body a chance to adjust. Ideally splash your face and body to get used to the temperature of the water. This is usually a slight shock (as mentioned above, open water can be cold even in the summer!) but if you focus on controlling your breathing with some deep breaths at the same time, you’ll find yourself comfortable in no time.
If you are wearing a wetsuit, it sounds counterproductive, but you actually want to pull it by the neck and let some water flush into the suit.
It’s never fun as this will be cold, but this layer of water is what actually helps keeps you warm later on.
Stop as much as you need to
Don’t be afraid to do any form of swim stroke that helps you stay calm and relax your breathing.
You can also stop as much as you want to!
If you’re in a wetsuit for the first time, you’ll be surprised at how buoyant they are if you just relax and spread your body across the water like a starfish.
The best way to calm yourself is to roll onto your back, place your head back in the water so the face is out of the water, and push your hips up, you will stay afloat!
Safety Never Has a Day Off
Always check the weather and tidal currents
Before you head out, take a moment to check the weather forecast and, if you're swimming in the sea, the tidal currents too. Wind, rain, and tides can change the water conditions quickly
Know where the exit and entry points are
Before you get in the water, take a moment to familiarise yourself with where you’ll be getting in and getting out. In open water, exits aren’t always obvious, especially if you’re tired or the conditions change, so knowing your route ahead of time can help you stay calm and confident during your swim.
Swim with someone!
Always open water swim with a buddy. It’s safer to swim in groups and always more fun, if you’re an anxious swimmer, having a laugh with friends will always settle the nerves!
