Swimmers in England urged to “take care at the coast” during lockdown

Those visiting local coastlines in England have been warned to “take care at the coast” as new lockdown restrictions come into force across the country.

The Maritime and Coastguard Agency have reminded the public of the “ever present dangers” involved with visiting and swimming along England’s coastline.

They state: “To reduce pressure on the NHS and emergency services, including HM Coastguard, we ask people to avoid activities that involve a significant degree of risk.

“We are in difficult times, but if you’re in trouble at the coast, we’re always here for you.”

As part of England’s latest lockdown restrictions, exercise outdoors or visiting an outdoor public place is limited to the people you live with, your support bubble, or when on your own, with one person from another household.

If you have access to water and are able to swim within government guidelines, be aware that you swim at your own risk. In the last lockdown many swimmers chose not to swim in case they got into difficulties and then placed an unnecessary burden on the emergency services. What would happen if you got into trouble? If you do decide to swim, adhere to government regulations and follow our swimming safety advice. More information on winter swimming can be found in our cold water swimming section.