Around the festive season, many Brits run to open water to take part in a charity cold water dip, but research shows one risk which people need to be aware of.
Sewer specialist Dane Westwood from RS Bonds has warned Brits about the certain areas they should stay away from, especially those at risk of being marked ‘excellent’ – despite past frequent contamination spills.
A recent survey of around 2,000 individuals revealed that 75% of outdoor swimmers expressed a desire to continue dipping or swimming in cold water during the winter months.
Over 216 wild swimming areas have reportedly been polluted this year with 1,374 illegal spills released into rivers, according to data pulled from Swimfo, Environment Agency Bathing Water Quality Reports, January 2024.
Westwood said: “While certain wild swimming spots in the UK may be rated as ‘excellent’ for water quality, it’s important to remember that these areas have had pollution issues in the past.
“For example, locations like Seaton Carew North and Sandsend have both faced 16 pollution incidents just this year alone.
“These past pollution events demonstrate that water quality can fluctuate, especially after heavy rainfall or adverse weather conditions. Wild swimmers should be cautious and check water quality updates before taking a dip.
“Over 216 wild swimming areas have been polluted just this year, with Dunster Beach reported to have 64 instances of contamination.
“Areas in Blackpool North, South and Central also have been reported to have 59 instances each, highlighting the severity of the issue.”
The research shows people should check water quality before heading out on their festive cold water dip.
“Even if a swimming spot has been rated as excellent, past pollution incidents, such as the 15 recorded at Seaton (Cornwall) should not be overlooked as pollution can vary seasonally, may not always be immediately visible and could still linger from previous spills.
“It’s important for anyone planning to swim in these areas to check water quality reports, as contamination can lead to serious health risks, including skin rashes, infections, or gastrointestinal illnesses.
“Pollution incidents, such as the eight recorded at Southend Three Shells and Redcar Granville, highlight the risks even in seemingly clean, well-rated locations. Pollution can stem from a variety of sources, including runoff from nearby land, untreated sewage discharge, or stormwater overflow after rainfall.
“These contaminants can make water unsafe for swimmers, which is why checking for recent pollution reports before heading to these spots is essential for your health and safety.”
Other advice to stay safe is to not go alone, always make sure you are swimming with someone or as part of a group.
It will be very cold so make sure you have the right equipment with you to stay warm after the dip – get your clothes ready for when you come out. Enter the water slowly so that your body has time to adapt to the cold temperature.
Make sure you are visible, it’s a good idea to get a tow float so that people can keep an eye on you.
Full list of wild swimming areas rated ‘excellent’ that faced pollution this year:
Seaton Carew North: 16 pollution instances
Sandsend: 16 pollution instances
Seaton (Cornwall): 15 pollution instances
Seaton (Devon): 9 pollution instances
Southend Three Shells: 8 pollution instances
Redcar Granville: 8 pollution instances
Porthcurnick: 7 pollution instances
Redcar Lifeboat Station: 7 pollution instances