24/06/2026
Entering rivers, lakes and ponds may feel tempting during hot weather but they are not safe to swim.
They can contain dangers beneath the water that you can’t see – from debris, weeds and strong currents, making it difficult for even experienced swimmers.
Open water also poses risks associated with waterborne diseases and cold water shock.
Public swimming and paddling/splash parks are available across the wider area for people to cool down safely.
If you visit the Lincolnshire coast, the safest way to enjoy the water is visiting an RNLI lifeguarded beach at Skegness or Mablethorpe and swim in between the flags. Sutton on Sea beach will also be lifeguarded over the summer season.
If open water swimming is your thing, or you want to try it, please make sure that you research some of the safe purpose made/maintained facilities available.
If you see someone in trouble in the water, the best way to help is to:
📱Phone 999
🗣Tell them to float on their back, relax and control their breathing.
👂Their head should be tilted back with ears submerged.
👋They should move their hands and legs to stay afloat. If their legs sink, that’s OK as everyone floats differently.
🛟Throw something to help them float
For more advice on floating to live, visit: https://rnli.org/safety/float
