National Park Authority Lake Ranger gives top tips for a safe dip

As the weather warms and visitors enjoy their summer holidays among the lakes and fells, the Lake District National Park Authority’s Lake rangers are sharing their top tips for a safe dip.

As wild swimming and paddleboarding becomes more popular in the Lake District, Jack Holmes, Lake Ranger says:

“We love to see people enjoying being in and on the water during the summer months and know how appealing the water can look, but please remember our lakes are deep and cold even when the sun is shining, and the weather is hot.

Whether you are an experienced open water swimmer or just having a quick dip, here are 10 top tips will make sure it is safe and enjoyable.

• swim with friends: don’t swim alone

• wear a brightly coloured swim hat
• use a bright float
• check the depth of waterbed by walking in slowly
• swim along the shoreline so you can get out easily
• work out where and how you will get out of the water easily
• don't stay in too long if you are not used to cold water
• wear a wetsuit for warmth and buoyancy
• have lots of layers, a hat, warm drink for when you get out, even in summer
• don’t drink alcohol and dive

Jack continues: “Some of our lakes are busier than others so it’s always good to get an idea of other activities taking place on the water and give space to other people. Our website lakedistrict.gov.uk/water details all the lakes and tarns that you can swim, paddleboard, sail, or kayak on and gives advice so you can plan ahead.”

If you happen to get in trouble in the water, remember the Float to Live messages:

• Tilt your head back with ears submerged
• Relax and try to breathe normally
• Move your hands to help stay afloat
• Do not panic if your legs sink, we all float differently
• Spread your arms and legs out for stability

Watch the RNLI video for more advice.

If you see somebody else in trouble, shout the above advice and call 999.

During warm, dry weather blue green algae can occur naturally in freshwater lakes. While it can pose a small risk to human health, it can be lethal for dogs if they come into contact with it. Please look for signage near the water and check the Environment Agency weekly updates on blue-green algae in the Lake District. If you suspect the water in any lake or tarn has algae, do not swim, and please report any potential sightings of blue-green algae using the Bloomin Algae app.

For more water safety tips, join our Lake Rangers for Water Wednesdays during August at our Lake District Visitor Centre, Brockhole on Windermere. Jack and the team will be on hand to educate visitors on being safe in and around the water.

Our photo shows Lake District National Park Authority Lake Ranger, Jack Holmes who is giving water safety advice ahead of the summer season. Jack is pictured on the ranger boat on Windermere.