IWD Cold Dip Challenge Health and Safety Tips

Please read the safety advice below in full and be aware that participation is at your own risk. Whether you choose to take part in the sea, a lake, a loch, your local swimming pool, or lido, it’s important you understand how to stay safe while fundraising for Refuge.

Taking on this challenge is entirely at your own risk, so please assess your ability and safety before you participate. Refuge shall not be liable for any injury, damage or loss to you or your property that might occur as a result of your participation.

 

Choosing Your Location:

Wherever you decide to dip, please take a moment to think carefully about the environment:

Open-air lidos are a great option and tend to be safer due to controlled conditions.
If you prefer coastal waters, lakes, or rivers, please consider: The presence of undercurrents, how remote the area is, and any active flood warnings
For sea dips, please only enter the water when a green flag is displayed.

 

Having Support Around You:

Your safety is our priority. Please ensure:

There is adequate lifeguard or shore support, ideally someone trained in CPR.
You can contact emergency services quickly if needed.
You dip with a buddy or in a group, rather than alone.

 

Safety Checklist:

Please use this checklist when planning your dip:

1. Before Your Dip

  • I have chosen a safe location (lido / supervised area / familiar and low‑risk natural spot).
  • If dipping in open water, I have checked for undercurrents, flood warnings, and weather conditions.
  • If dipping in the sea, I have confirmed a green flag is in place.
  • I have told someone where I’m going and when I expect to finish.
  • I’m wearing suitable clothing (e.g., swimsuit, neoprene gloves/boots, warm layers for after).

2. Staying Safe Together

  • I have at least one buddy or am part of a group.
  • There is lifeguard or shore support at the location.
  • Someone present is trained in CPR (if possible).
  • I have a charged phone or another way to call emergency services.

3. During & After the Dip

  • I am entering the water slowly and listening to my body.
  • I will exit the water immediately if I feel unwell, overly cold, or disoriented.
  • I have warm clothes and a hot drink ready for afterwards.

We know many of you are seasoned dippers, while others are trying this for the first time. Wherever you are on that journey, thank you for taking these precautions seriously, they help keep everyone safe while supporting Refuge.

 

If you’d like to chat about your planned location or have any questions at all, we’re here to help, email the team at events@refuge.org.uk