Guidelines for Water Safety At Charity Swim Events

If you are organising a charity swim event, you have a responsibility to ensure adequate water safety measures are in place, to reduce the possible risks to attendees. Water Safety Ireland provides guidelines for a number of charity swim types.

Water Safety Ireland Recommended Safety Framework for Charity and Organised Open Water Swimming Events

Charity Dip Guidelines:  

• Every event should appoint a Safety Officer whose responsibility includes having a Risk Assessment conducted in advance. This Safety Officer will advise those concerned on safety and have the ultimate responsibility for making decisions in relation to the swim being on or off on the day. If the seas are rough and weather deteriorates, they should defer the event to a more suitable day without question – if in doubt do not take a chance.  

• The Safety Officer should inform the Coast Guard and the Gardaí about the event. 

• Organisers of Christmas Day or New Year swims are advised to have a suitable amount of trained personnel, such as Beach or Inland Lifeguards in attendance. 

• A First aid kit which has emergency foil Blankets as part of its contents should be available. 

• Check with your local authority as they may require permission to access the location. 

• Many participants will not be accustomed to winter dips and the dangers related to cold water. 

• Alcohol will not keep you warm when entering the water. No alcohol should be taken before your winter dip.  
• Please refer to our Open Water Swimming Brochure to prepare for your swim.
• Cold water can cause cold shock and hypothermia. Keep your dip short. Find more information here.
• Ensure that you have safe access and egress with appropriate shallow shelving beaches, steps, slipway or ladder as appropriate. People should be mindful that steps leading into the water might be dangerous due to the increased growth of algae in wintertime.  

• Fancy dress outfits can seriously impair your ability to float – please do not wear when swimming.  

• • “Get In, Get Out and Warm Up Quickly.”, see further advice here.  

Advice For Those Taking Part:   

• Never swim alone. 

• Be aware of your own limitations – do not take risks with your own safety. 

• Ensure that somebody ashore is monitoring your activity. 

• Acclimatise slowly – splash the cold water on your neck and face so that your body gets accustomed to the cold. 

• Always Stay within your depth. 

• Wear a bright swim cap so you can always be seen. 

• Be aware of the local weather on the day of your swim. 

• Warm up afterwards by putting on dry clothes quickly and wear a warm hat as soon as you get out. 

• Entry and exit points may be difficult in the sub-zero conditions so walk slowly to avoid slipping. 

• Avoid swimming in any areas where there is ice, fog, strong winds or currents.  

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