Winter water safety

15.1.25
Much of what we do at The Aqua Contractor is driven by safety. Aquatic weeds can cause hazards on boating and leisure lakes, in fisheries, and other bodies of water, not necessarily as much in the winter, granted. But there are more of what you might call hidden dangers in the water in winter. Welcome to our first blog of 2025: Winter water safety, meant as guidance only.

Why does winter water safety matter?

Unforgiving cold water can be very dangerous. The temperature of UK rivers, lakes, and canals tends to plummet sharply all of a sudden in winter, and a fall into cold water – and it doesn’t have to be icy – can cause cold water shock. Breathing difficulties and limited movement can then hinder you from crying for help. Hypothermia sets in very quickly, and so accidents that you might brush off as nothing in summer take on a far more serious aspect in winter.
Cold water shock can occur within seconds of icy water immersion, and is the body’s involuntary response to sudden cold, often bringing on rapid breathing, increased heart rate, and muscle cramps.

Cold water shock survival tips

Control your breathing and try to curb the instinct to gasp.

Focus on slow, steady breaths.
Lean back, spread your arms and legs, and try to float. This position helps conserve energy.
Shout or wave if you’re able.

Dress for the winter weather

There’s a song about the world being a great big onion, and when dressing for the winter and especially when you’re going to be close to water, layers are your friend. It might sound like something that only those who remember the war might do, but thermal underwear is the best base layer. But you’re only in the foothills of the mountain with this. You need to climb and build with a further insulating layer and then a waterproof outer shell. Like a human crab. Cotton might be comfy but it’s a notorious moisture trap and therefore, a no-no. This will only chill your body right down.

Get a grip

The correct footwear is a familiar cry on any blog running with safety and the outdoors themes, and we’re going to join that chorus. You can’t beat sturdy, waterproof clodhoppers with a grip of steel. You’ll make light work of slippery paths, icy banks and wet surfaces that could mean you are slip-sliding into the water otherwise. Safe on solid ground is where you want to be.

The ice is not nice

Even Torvill and Dean would struggle to style it out on frozen lakes that look so beautiful and inviting. You must never ever walk on frozen ice, let alone skate unless it’s been officially tested and declared safe by an appropriate body. Even then, you might wish to proceed with caution.

What to do if someone falls through the ice:

• Under no circumstances should you attempt to rescue them by walking onto the ice yourself.
• Call 999 and ask for the fire and rescue service.
• If safe to do so, lay flat on the ground to distribute your weight and extend a branch, pole, or scarf to help pull them out.
• Encourage them to stay as still as possible to conserve energy and keep their head above water.

Familiarity breeds content

Familiarising yourself with the local area if you’re headed out on a walk next water is a good idea. Nature’s very own warning signs are there, or actual signs outlining the dangers of strong currents, rapids, deep water etc. You might also want to check for lifebuoys and that they are actually in place. Likewise throw lines or other safety equipment.

It’s also a good idea to know where you can safely leave the water should you accidentally fall in. For example if it’s a weedy, crumbly bank mostly, but there are gaps in this where you could get more purchase in order to haul yourself out.

Checking the weather is also a given of course. But it’s easily overlooked as a water walk might not strike you as posing the same dangers that, say, a mountain trail might should the weather suddenly shift. But don’t underestimate how quickly a torrential winter downpour can make for slippery and slidey and unsafe conditions underfoot on the banks of rivers etc.

Keep dogs on leads

The natural curiosity of your pooch might lure them toward ice. As fun and fascinating as it is, it's a risk, and even more so in unfamiliar areas. The general guidance is that you shouldn’t follow your dog into the water if they fall in. Most dogs are strong swimmers and even if they struggle, most can get themselves out.

Winter fishing

We already covered this at length in another Aqua Contractor blog on fishing in winter, but it merits a mention here that a life jacket is advisable if you’re fishing alone or near deep water.

Tell someone your plans

This is one instance when plastering your plans all over social media might be a good idea. Or let at least one person know your winter walk plans and when you’re expected to return. Wet surfaces, frost, and algae can make riverbanks and piers perilously slippery. Take your time.

Winter boating tips

Again, we’ve covered this extensively in a previous blog. Canal boating in winter is such a serene experience, and you can make it evern more so by preparing your boat for winter. Check for leaks and please also make sure that the heating system is tiptop and that your emergency supplies are all to hand, including a first aid kit.
Even experienced boaters can find themselves in trouble during winter. Wear a lifejacket and carry a waterproof phone case to ensure you can call for help if needed.

Essential winter Gear

Whether walking, fishing, or boating, always carry:
• A fully-charged mobile phone
• A whistle for signalling
• A waterproof torch
• Spare dry clothing in a waterproof bag

Emergency Numbers

In the UK, dial 999 or 112 for emergencies. Be ready to provide your location and describe the situation clearly.

Taking a course in water safety and first aid can be invaluable. The Royal Life Saving Society (RLSS UK) offers resources and training courses to help you prepare for emergencies. Encourage friends and family to adopt winter water safety practices becasue sharing knowledge could prevent accidents and save lives.

Sources:

rlss.org.uk
metoffice.gov.uk
canalrivertrust.org.uk
nationalwatersafety.org.uk
rnli.org