UK Water Experts Urge Lifeguarded Swimming After 18 Deaths in Hot Weather

3 articles · Updated · BBC.com · Jun 20

At least 18 people died during last month's hot weather after getting into difficulty in the water, prompting UK safety experts to stress supervised open-water swimming.
202 accidental water-related deaths were recorded across the UK in 2025, and experts warned that rivers, reservoirs and canals can hide currents, debris, drop-offs and machinery.
RNLI and rescue workers said swimmers should avoid going alone or after drinking, enter water slowly to reduce cold-water shock, and treat inflatables as pool toys rather than seaside gear.
Rip currents and cold water remain key risks even in good weather; if caught out, swimmers are advised to float, control breathing, signal with one hand and call 999 using What3words if needed.
For people spotting someone in trouble, the guidance is to phone for help, tell them to float and throw an object from shore rather than jumping in and risking a second casualty.