Safety Advice for Sea Swimmers

Staying safe while swimming for COPE Galway

Have fun and stay safe.

Sea swimming has both physical and mental health benefits. It can clear the mind of worries and anxieties and many who swim daily will tell you that the sea alleviates many physical symptoms and pain.

Your safety is of paramount importance. Before you participate in this event, ensure you follow all safety guidelines and public safety information, take all precautions necessary and that you seek medical advice if you have any reason to.

Get in, Get out, Warm up.


Swim in a safe place and never swim alone

Pay close attention to the weather forecast – if in doubt, don’t go out. Make sure you can enter and exit the water quickly and easily.


Make sure that you are visible from the shore

Wear a brightly coloured swimming hat or use a tow float to increase your visibility.


Listen to your body

Know your limits. Don’t get too cold. Wearing a wet suit, wear a swimming hat, or two, to help preserve body heat. Slowly acclimate yourself to cold water to reduce the risk of cold water shock.


No diving

Do not dive or jump in unless you are used to the cold water. Cold water can cause gasping of breath and cold water shock.


Warm up quickly afterwards

Get dry quickly. Wrap up well in extra layers of clothing. Bring a hot water bottle. Drink a hot drink. Bring warm hat and gloves.


Never swim with alcohol

Alcohol impairs your judgement and reduces your ability to respond.

Read the full brochure by Water Safety Ireland