Stand knee deep in the water and feel the direction of the current. Is it pulling you to the left, right, out to sea or towards the beach?
Find a marker on the beach directly behind you that isn’t going to move e.g. collection of rocks, house or shop. When in the sea keep looking back to ensure you are still in line and haven’t drifted down the beach.
Be visible- wear a green or red hat. Have a tow float for visibility and to hold onto if you need a rest.
Keep looking up and back to see where you are. If in a busy harbour stay away from harbour mouths and moving boats. If in the sea be aware of shipping traffic, surfers, gig rowers, jet skis and stand up paddle boarders.
Try and swim on lifeguarded beaches where possible. Remember to swim between the red and yellow flags.
Check your mobile signal and have a look to see if any safety equipment is nearby. Where’s the nearest phone, Defib, torpedo buoy or ring?
