It's worth following this simple advice to ensure your open water swim is safe and enjoyable.

• Cover all cuts and abrasions with sticking plaster. You should not consider swimming if you have deep cuts.
• Wash hands in fresh water before eating after swimming.
• Take a full shower at the earliest opportunity.
• Try not to ingest water whilst swimming.
• Don’t swim if you feel unwell.
• Make sure you’re well fuelled and hydrated but allow a couple of hours before you swim if you’ve had a bigger meal.
• Make sure you have well-fitting goggles and a swim hat.
• You will require a wetsuit for water temperatures below 14 degrees.
• Make sure you have warm clothes for after your swim.
• Do not exceed your personal capabilities on the day of your swim; ‘if in doubt, don’t go out’!
• Ensure you are present for the session briefing prior to entering the water.