New Year open water swimmers warned about risks after Christmas Day disappearances
The Royal National Lifeboat Institute (RNLI) has issued a stern warning to those planning a festive open-water swim, urging participants to be aware of the inherent risks as the new year approaches.
The charity highlighted the dangers of cold water shock for anyone who enters water at or below 15°C, especially with adverse weather conditions.
Average sea temperatures in the UK and Ireland during this period generally range between 6°C and 10°C.
The cautionary advice comes after 63-year-old Matthew Upham and another man tragically disappeared while swimming in Budleigh Salterton, Devon, on Christmas Day.
Two men were reported missing after entering the water to help a woman in distress.
While several people were rescued from the stormy conditions and received medical attention, two men have not been located, according to Devon & Cornwall Police.
Gareth Morrison, the RNLI’s head of water safety, stressed the importance of caution.
“We know that at this time of year many people take part in festive and New Year dives or continue to take part in regular winter swims,” he said on Tuesday.
“We therefore urge anyone entering the water to be aware of the dangers, check sea conditions carefully and understand their own limits.”
Mr Morrison underlined the seriousness of the circumstances. “Sea temperatures are still falling, reaching their coldest values around March, and the effects of cold water, along with weather conditions and personal health issues, should be taken seriously before entering the sea,” he added.
He also advised: “If this is your first time offshore, we would recommend speaking to your doctor first, especially for those with heart or underlying health conditions.”
The RNLI has provided crucial safety measures for open water swimmers and New Year dive participants.
“Avoid swimming alone, consider going with others or joining a group so you can look out for each other,” Mr Morrison said.
“Consider the depth of the water; stay in your depth wherever possible.” For those attending organized events, he stressed: “If you are going to take part in a New Year’s dive, please make sure you go to a well-organised event with appropriate safety protection.”
Basic equipment is also very important. “We recommend wearing a wetsuit to keep you warm and increase your buoyancy, as well as a bright swim cap and tow buoy to make yourself visible to others and available for use in emergencies,” Mr Morrison said.
Most importantly, he warned against entering the water to help someone in distress, urging people to call emergency services instead.
“The most important thing to remember is if in any doubt stay out of the water and if you or anyone else gets into trouble in or on the water please call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.”
He concluded: “Even the well-prepared can find themselves in a difficult situation, but having the right knowledge and equipment can save lives. Taking a tool to call for help, such as a mobile phone in a waterproof bag and a mobile phone with a whistle, can be a real lifesaver.”
A yellow weather warning for wind has led to the cancellation of many Christmas and Boxing Day swimming events in Devon and Cornwall this year, although some New Year events are planned to go ahead.
Among them is Westward Ho! New Year’s Fancy Dress in north Devon on Thursday. Organizer Peter Sawyer confirmed strict precautions were in place, including an RNLI-approved lifeguard team and a separate medical team with 4×4 ambulances.
Mr Sawyer, who has extensive experience at sea, noted: “The ocean is a very dangerous place if you don’t know what you’re doing.”
Referring to the Budleigh Salterton incident, he added: “It’s very sad when someone dies, especially at an event, whether it’s loosely organized or just a gathering.”
He said he had previously rescheduled the 2025 New Year’s Fall due to 65 mph wind forecasts, but this year “we have ideal conditions and we’re really looking forward to sharing the beach with so many happy people.”
Similarly, a New Year’s Day Swim is also planned to be held at Manchester’s Salford Quays, organizer Uswim confirmed.
The event will feature extensive safety measures, including water safety vehicles, qualified personnel, an indoor swimming course, mandatory tow vehicles for all participants and reheating facilities on land.
A spokesperson for Uswim highlighted their charitable impact: “We are a professional swimming organization and our lovely little charity swim has raised more than £150k for local hospices, children’s charities and local food banks over the years. Keep it up.”
