Dip for Dementia

• Do not swim alone. Swim with other people who can help if something goes wrong. Let someone know where you are going
• Check conditions before you go. Look at the weather forecast, tides and water conditions. If conditions change or you do not feel confident, do not swim
• Do not swim if there is thunder and lightning – wait until at least 30 minutes after it passes
• Choose your location carefully. Follow local advice and swim in a familiar place, preferably with lifeguards. Check that you can get into and out of the water safely and easily
• Have a way to call for help. Take a fully charged mobile phone with you and make sure you can contact the emergency services if you or someone you are with need assistance
• Stay within your limits. Choose a distance and pace that suit your ability. You do not need to push yourself to complete the challenge
• Swim in daylight. Avoid swimming outdoors in the dark
• Wear something that helps you be seen. Brightly coloured swimwear or a brightly coloured hat can make you easier to spot. Using a tow float can give extra visibility but be aware that these are not buoyancy aids
• Consider suitable equipment. A wetsuit can provide buoyancy and warmth. Neoprene boots, gloves and a swimming cap can also help keep you more comfortable
• Enter the water slowly. Do not jump in. Cold water can cause your body to react suddenly, so take your time
• Know when to get out. If you feel too cold, dizzy, sick, confused, faint or unwell, leave the water and get help straight away
• Get dry and warm safely afterwards. Avoid standing around in wet swimwear;  put on warm, dry clothes, including a hat, and keep moving. Move somewhere warm and have a warm drink and something to eat. Do not have a hot shower straight away as this might make you feel dizzy or faint
• Do not swim after drinking alcohol, taking drugs or taking medications that may cause drowsiness or impair your judgement. You need to be able to assess the conditions and respond quickly if something goes wrong

If someone is in trouble in open water, call 999. Follow the emergency operator’s instructions and do not put yourself at risk by entering the water to help someone else.

Think about your health. If you have a health condition that could be affected by swimming or cold water, or if you are pregnant, speak to a healthcare professional before taking part.

Take responsibility for your own safety. Please make sure you understand the risks and feel able to take part safely. Fundraising activities are undertaken at your own risk and are not covered by Dementia UK’s insurance unless the activity has been arranged directly by Dementia UK.

• RNLI: open water swimming safety guidance
• Top recommendations for safer open water swimming: Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK)What is the Water Safety Code? Swim England learn to swim companion

To sign up to the challenge, register here. 
 
When you register, your fundraising page will be automatically created for you.

This is a virtual challenge so you can do it t at a time that best suits you. You can do it in a lack, the sea or bathtub. You can do it together with your friends and family. 

No. Taking part in the Dip for Dementia challenge is free!