Six things everyone needs to know before wild swimming in Ireland
I've been getting in the sea since I was a child as I grew up in Devon - and I still absolutely love sea swimming these days, but it's only in the last five years that I've got into wild swimming all-year-round.
The mental health and even physical health benefits of wild swimming can really benefit mind, body and soul - and if you decide to brave the activity in all seasons many will grow to love it, it becomes addictive.
Endorphins are released and your circulation is stimulated by the cold water when you submerge yourself into the sea, it really has a feel good factor.
The sea is at a warm-ish temperature at the moment (in August) though you may be surprised to hear that in my opinion, it still feels fairly 'balmy' into September and October. Wild water swimming can be very dangerous. (Image: Getty) Cold shock
That said, cold shock is definitely something to be aware of when swimming in any UK wild spot as it can pose a danger to life - and this goes for sea swimming, rivers or lakes.
Jumping into open water or even just staying in too long can cause cold water shock, especially if you're not used to the temperature, so it's best to ease yourself in slowly, rather than jumping straight into deep water. Pollution
I used to swim in rivers when I was a child, however, these days sadly, many rivers are reported to be risky as untreated sewage or chemicals could pose a risk to health.
This pollution risk also applies to sea swimming, so the first thing I'd recommend checking if you're looking to wild swim is the water quality, which can change day to day depending on weather conditions (heavy rain) along with many other factors.
I use the app Safer Seas & Rivers Service, where you can check out swimming spots across the UK daily and set up notifications that alert you to 'sewage overflow spills' or 'pollution risk', which can be an issue after heavy rain.
But when the coast is clear and the sun is shining, a sea swim (or river plunge) can be truly delightful, however there are a few other tips to bear in mind. Early morning swimmers getting out of the sea at Sandy Cove saltwater swimming pool in Sandy Cove near Dublin Get the kit
Use a tow float if you're heading out of your depth and it's best to go with someone or a group - if that's not possible try and choose busier areas or at least let someone know where you are swimming. Be tide aware
Be aware of the tides, which come in and out a couple times over a 24-hour period, meaning what was shallow seawater the week before may be deep in the same spot a few days later.
Also, the pull of the tide (when it's going out) can be strong to swim against when coming back in, so be aware of this - and amazingly when it's a full or new moon so-called 'spring tides' mean high water is deeper than usual due to a huge gravitational pull on the tide.
When the tide turns or switching from going in to out or out to in the sea can also turn a little temperamental at times, that's the main thing, the sea state can change in minutes, so keep an eye on tide times before you take a dip.
Rip tides are also a worry in some sea swimming spots, particularly in Cornwall where the sea is actually the Atlantic Ocean, a rip is a strong current of water that pulls directly away from the shore regardless of what the tide is doing.
These dangerous currents cut through breaking waves and can pull out even the most experienced swimmer, Cornish Wave, a surfing and adventure activity business have highlighted what to look for.
On their website they advise: "Look for patches of water that are darker in colour to the surrounding water."
Cornish Wave added this advice: "The surface of the water flickers or dances in the area where the rip is - and waves look different and don't break as often."
Importantly, look at how far you are heading out, I have swam out deep sometimes, turned around and gasped at how far I've gone - and then you need to swim back.
In wintertime (yes I even swim in February) a bracing dip is invigorating, despite the initial shock of the cold water, I feel it's very good for you. Inch beach, wonderful 5km long stretch of glorious sand and dunes, popular for surfing, swimming and fishing Prepare
Summer or winter, I'd advise a snuggly warm changing robe, I have two, a huge waterproof Two Bare Feet winter robe and a towelling lightweight one for the warmer months - these make changing easy and you soon warm up. Get the skills
RNLI offer 'Float to live' advice if you do get into trouble in the water, on their website, they advise: "The best way to float is to tilt your head back with your ears submerged.
"Try to relax and breathe normally - you can gently move your hands and legs to help you stay afloat if you need to.
"Spread your arms and legs out to improve stability - and it's OK if your legs sink, we all float differently.
"Once your breathing is under control, call for help or swim to safety."
Sea-swimming can be a 'safe' activity if you use your common sense and familiarise yourself with the tides - and be aware of the power of the sea. Unexpected benefits
Over the years, I've been fortunate to spot a variety of wildlife while swimming, including seals, dolphins, cormorants and birds of prey.
During the summer, it's not uncommon to see thousands of tiny fish being swept towards the shore by the tide, remember to respect any creatures you see - and don't get too close, give them lots of space.
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