Twelve people, including several children, have tragically lost their lives in open water across the UK during a record-breaking heatwave. Temperatures remain elevated in many regions, prompting a UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) yellow health alert for eastern and South East England and London, effective until 8pm on Saturday.
What is Cold Water Shock?
Cold water shock is the body's immediate physiological response to sudden immersion in cold water. The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) explains that this reaction is instantaneous and can lead to drowning. Anyone entering cold water suddenly, whether by accident or deliberately, is at risk, regardless of their swimming ability.
Physical Effects of Cold Water Shock
The National Water Safety Forum (NWSF) states that cold water shock triggers gasping, panic, and loss of swimming ability, all of which can result in drowning. It also causes a sharp rise in heart rate and blood pressure, potentially leading to a heart attack even in fit and healthy individuals.
How Cold is UK Water?
Many inland waters in the UK remain at 16°C or below throughout summer, a temperature considered dangerous for cold water shock, according to the NWSF. The RNLI warns that even on hot days, water can be bitterly cold. Average UK and Ireland sea temperatures sit at 12°C, with rivers like the Thames even colder. Professor Mike Tipton, chairman of the NWSF, explains that water can take weeks to warm up, and sea water around the UK does not reach its warmest until late August or early September.
How to Stay Safe: Float to Live
The RNLI urges people to 'float to live', a technique that has saved over 50 lives in various situations. The guidance includes tilting your head back with ears submerged, relaxing and breathing normally, and gently moving hands and legs to stay afloat. Spreading arms and legs improves stability; it is normal for legs to sink. Once breathing is under control, call for help or swim to safety. Practice floating in a supervised location like a swimming pool.
Phone, Float, Throw Campaign
The NWSF and Respect The Water have launched 'Phone, Float, Throw', a campaign providing clear guidance for bystanders witnessing someone in difficulty: phone 999, tell the person to stay calm and float on their back, and throw rescue equipment to help them float until emergency services arrive.
