Stay Safe Swimming in the Sea

With the summer months approaching, swimming in open water can be both thrilling and delightful. Here is my quick guide on how to stay safe swimming in the sea. 

A special feeling is provided by the huge ocean and its cooling waves. However, putting safety first is essential to guaranteeing a fun and accident-free swim. You can maximise your fun, while being safe in the water by adhering to a few key rules.

Assess the Conditions: Before taking the plunge, it’s essential to assess the current conditions. Check weather reports, tide schedules, and any warnings issued by local authorities. Avoid swimming during storms or when strong currents, high waves, or rip tides are present. Always prioritise your safety over the desire to swim.

Swim in Designated Areas: Whenever possible, swim in designated areas supervised by lifeguards. These areas are carefully monitored, and the lifeguards can promptly respond to any emergencies. They are knowledgeable about the local conditions and can provide guidance to ensure your safety.

stay safe swimming in the sea

Remember it’s always better to prioritise safety!

Be Mindful of Your Abilities: Honest self-assessment is key to staying safe in the sea. Only swim within your skill level and physical capabilities. Avoid venturing too far from the shore if you are not a strong swimmer. It’s better to enjoy the water within your comfort zone to prevent exhaustion or panic.

Buddy System: Swimming with a buddy is highly recommended, especially in open water. Having a companion ensures mutual support and assistance if needed. Additionally, keep an eye on each other and alert someone on the shore about your swimming plans and estimated return time.

Respect the water: Open water can be unpredictable, it’s important to recognise its strength. To avoid getting hurt by submerged rocks or shallow water, avoid diving into uncharted locations. Never swim by yourself at night or while inebriated because this slows down reaction time and judgement.

Swimming in the water can be physically taxing, so it’s crucial to stay hydrated. Also, make sure you’re protected. To avoid being dehydrated during and after your swim, drink plenty of water. In order to reduce the danger of sunburn, you should also protect your skin by using sunscreen with a high SPF, wearing a hat, and swimming in UV-protective gear.

Be Aware of Marine Life: While encountering marine life can be exciting, it’s essential to maintain a safe distance. Some species may be harmless, but others can pose risks, such as jellyfish, stingrays, or even sharks. Familiarise yourself with local marine life and heed any warnings or guidelines provided by local authorities.

Cornwall Air Ambulance

With the summer months approaching, it is important to recognise one of the most vital emergency services in Cornwall. The Cornwall Air Ambulance.

Cornwall Air Ambulance is a critical medical service that provides emergency air transport. Mostly to critically injured patients throughout the county. The Cornwall Air Ambulance Trust, a registered charity. Operates the air ambulance service, which is funded entirely by public donations. With its highly trained medical staff and state of the art equipment. The Cornwall Air Ambulance plays a pivotal role in providing rapid response emergency medical care, to those who need it most.

Cornwall Air Ambulance has 2 helicopters, both of which are fitted out with cutting edge medical technology. The aircraft are staffed by highly experienced paramedics and doctors. The helicopters are stationed at Cornwall Airport, Newquay. They can be accessed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The service covers around 1000 square miles. It can reach any spot in the county of Cornwall within 20 minutes.

Cornwall Air Ambulance

cornwall air ambulance

Cornwall Air Ambulance provides emergency medical assistance to individuals who require immediate help. This could include people who have been in a catastrophic vehicle accident, had a cardiac arrest or serious injury in a recreational activity. Critically sick patients who need to be transferred between hospitals, can also benefit from the air ambulance.

Cornwall Air Ambulance is exclusively supported by charitable contributions and receives no government assistance. Every year, the charity relies on the generosity of the public to generate the £4.5 million a year that is required to keep the service going. The charity organisation has a dedicated fundraising staff team. They organise a variety of events and activities to raise funds for the service. The organisation also operates a number of stores right throughout the county. Where anyone who visits can contribute items to be sold. Or buy some of the products on sale, to help fund the air ambulance.