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Irish Daily Mirror
6 days ago
- Health
- Irish Daily Mirror
Six things everyone needs to know before wild swimming in Ireland
Summer is a time when many of us brave our bountiful and gorgeous open water swimming spots. 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.
Daily Record
6 days ago
- Health
- Daily Record
Six things everyone needs to know before wild swimming in Scotland
Summertime is the best time of year to brave the sea or open water, but there are a few things to bear in mind if you're thinking of taking the plunge Summer is a time when many of us brave our bountiful and gorgeous open water swimming spots. 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. 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. 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. 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.
Wales Online
25-06-2025
- Climate
- Wales Online
People warned to stay out of the sea at nine Welsh beaches
People warned to stay out of the sea at nine Welsh beaches Many beaches have had sewage discharged nearby in the last 48 hours Bracelet Bay beach at Mumbles, a popular summer desitnation has been included in the warning (Image: WalesOnline/Rob Browne ) People have been warned not to go into the sea at nine beaches in Wales, after they were reported to have sewage discharged into them in the last 48 hours. Surfers Against Sewage, one of country's leading marine conservations regularly warns people of sewage discharges at popular spots. Its Safer Seas & Rivers Service monitors the water quality at 600 'surf and swim spots' across the UK, and has listed nine locations in Wales that have had sewage discharged in the last 48 hours. The beaches included in the warning are: Swansea Bay The charity stated: 'Storm sewage has been discharged from a sewer overflow in this location within the past 48 hours. "Swansea Bay is a 9km stretch of sand, pebble and mud flats that stretches from Mumbles Head to the River Tawe. 'It slopes gently and at low tide the waters edge is along way from the beach front. Numerous sewer overflows discharge into the sea and waterways here including several that discharge into the River Tawe.' For our free daily briefing on the biggest issues facing the nation, sign up to the Wales Matters newsletter here Article continues below Bracelet Bay The charity stated: 'Storm sewage has been discharged from a sewer overflow in this location within the past 48 hours. "This is a small cove on the south Gower coast, west of Mumbles village. 'The gently sloping beach is a mixture of sand and rocks, backed by a bank of pebbles and limestone cliffs. "Mumbles Sewage Pumping Station has an emergency and sewer overflow approximately 1.3 kilometres from the water quality sample point, which can discharge off Mumbles Head, but only at certain times of an ebbing tide.' Limeslade Bay The charity stated: 'Storm sewage has been discharged from a sewer overflow in this location within the past 48 hours. 'Limeslade is a small and tidal cove, found on the south east of the Gower peninsular. On a high tide the beach is almost non-existent and pebbly, but on a low tide, the sand is exposed, along with numerous rock pools. "Limeslade Pumping Station has an emergency overflow, which can discharge to the west of the beach.' Langland Bay another popluar location in Swansea is also included in the list (Image: Richard Swingler Photography ) Langland Bay The charity says: 'Storm sewage has been discharged from a sewer overflow in this location within the past 48 hours. 'Langland is a wide and sandy bay with pebbles and rocks on either side. It is backed by a promenade with cafes, beach huts, limestone cliffs, and a golf course. "Langland Pumping Station has an overflow, which can discharge to a point just above mean low water.' Ogmore By Sea The charity has stated: ' Bathing not advised due to Poor annual classification. 'A popular sand and pebble beach at the mouth of the River Ogmore. "The 2-mile-long beach is popular with families, surfers and canoeists. Although the only facilities on the beach are a surf club and toilets, there are good pubs within half a mile. "Above Dunraven Bay, you'll have one of the best views along the Glamorgan Heritage Coast. In 2023, the beach was classified as poor, so bathing is not advised.' Llanfairfechan The charity stated: 'Storm sewage has been discharged from a sewer overflow in this location within the past 48 hours. "Llanfairfechan is situated on the North Wales coastline, 9.5 kilometres to the east of Bangor. 'It is a long sand and pebble beach, with a concrete promenade running the length of its rear. Behind the promenade are shops, cafes, houses and the main North Wales railway line. "The coastal waters are designated under the Menai Strait and Conwy Special Area of Conservation, in addition to the Traeth Lafan Special Protection Area and a Site of Special Scientific Interest.' Llandudno West Shore The charity stated: 'Storm sewage has been discharged from a sewer overflow in this location within the past 48 hours. Situated on the north Wales coastline, below the Great Orme, the bay faces west over Conwy Sands. 'The beach is long and sandy with a stony pebble foreshore, backed by a concrete promenade. It is potentially impacted by a number of storm and emergency overflows, both along the immediate foreshore and within the main freshwater from the Conwy. This location is covered by Pollution Risk Forecasting.' Colwyn Bay The charity stated: 'Storm sewage has been discharged from a sewer overflow in this location within the past 48 hours. The bay is situated on the North Wales coastline, to the east of Rhos Point, approximately 10 kilometres from the Great Orme headland. 'The beach is long and sandy, with a concrete promenade to the rear. The water quality sample point is located in front of the Cayley Promenade opposite the lifebuoy and the white tower.' Colwyn Bay Porth Eirias The charity stated: 'Storm sewage has been discharged from a sewer overflow in this location within the past 48 hours. The bay is situated on the north Wales coastline, to the east of Rhos Point, approximately 10 kilometres from the Great Orme headland. Article continues below 'The beach is long and sandy, with a concrete promenade to the rear. The sample point is located to the left/west of the building at Porth Eirias carpark and down the beach. The sample is taken 250 meter to the left of the stones - half way between Porth Eirias Centre and the pier.'
Western Telegraph
19-05-2025
- General
- Western Telegraph
Locals attend Broad Haven for Surfers Against Sewage protest
Locals gathered at Broad Haven to demonstrate their concerns over the ongoing sewage crisis, which they say saw untreated sewage discharged more than once a minute, on average, across the UK last year. The Surfers Against Sewage protest in Pembrokeshire was one of more than 40 held across the country, calling for total reform of the water industry in England and Wales, and clearer monitoring and transparency of the sewage crisis. The message from protestors was clear. (Image: Jake Aldred) CEO at Surfers Against Sewage, Giles Bristow, said: 'Another year, another summer of swimming and surfing in sewage while our shameless water companies laugh all the way to the bank. The protest was one of over 40 held across the country. (Image: Jake Aldred) 'Our failing water industry has been trumpeting billions in investment to clean up their act, but we know that these fat cat bosses can't be trusted to keep their promises. Locals want their sea to be sewage free. (Image: Jake Aldred) 'The proof is in the missed targets, shocking statistics and devastating stories of sickness we continue to see year after year.' Data shows that less than one in five UK adults (19%) believe they will be able to swim safely at their local spot by 2030. (Image: Jake Aldred) New polling data shows that less than one in five UK adults (19%) believe they will be able to swim safely at their local spot by 2030 without risking their health due to sewage pollution. 'You are connected to the sea.' (Image: Jake Aldred) More than half (54%) worry they will get sick if they swim in the UK's rivers, lakes and seas. More than half (54%) worry they will get sick if they swim in seas. (Image: Jake Aldred) Meanwhile, more than a third (37%) believe the actions of their water supplier has negatively impacted their local community and less than a third (32%) trust the government to ensure water suppliers will reduce sewage spills. More than a third (37%) believe the actions of their water supplier has negatively impacted their local community. (Image: Jake Aldred) Giles added: 'We've had enough of their lies, greed and incompetence and know that this nightmare will not end until the whole water system is radically reformed. 'Stop pumping our dumping.' (Image: Jake Aldred) 'The thousands paddling out across the UK are letting the water companies, government and Independent Water Commission know, loud and clear, that we will not accept another year of risking our health to swim in the sea. 'Water slaughter.' (Image: Jake Aldred) 'People should be free to use the water without fear of getting sick, and that's why we developed the Safer Seas & Rivers Service, a free app that provides real-time pollution alerts, giving peace of mind for those worried about sewage pollution." Less than a third (32%) trust the government to ensure water suppliers will reduce sewage spills. (Image: Jake Aldred) Surfers Against Sewage is calling for ambitious and radical reform of the water industry in England and Wales, which puts the environment and public health ahead of profit, ending sewage pollution for good. Dŵr Cymru say they are investing heavily to help improve water quality in our rivers and seas. Jenny Grubb, Environment Advisor and Stakeholder Manager for Dŵr Cymru recently said: 'Welsh Water is investing £2.5bn over the next five years on projects to improve the environment. "Action from one sector won't be enough to improve our rivers, and the solutions we propose must be future proof and climate resilient. "We are keen to find partnership projects and to work with organisations that are delivering environmental improvements. "We hope that our investment will be boosted by working with others to ensure that river water quality continues to improve to the standard that we all want to see.'
