Overview
- Hundreds still took part in organised New Year’s Day dips across the UK and Ireland, with many events providing lifeguards, rescue craft and reheat facilities.
- The RNLI reiterated key precautions: avoid swimming alone, stay within your depth, wear a wetsuit with a bright cap and tow float, and carry a phone in a waterproof pouch and a whistle.
- Regional alerts were issued for dangerous surf and rip currents, including warnings from the Tynemouth Volunteer Life Brigade through January 3 and Furness Coastguard over dark high tides and strong northwesterly winds.
- Sea temperatures are about 6–10°C and water at or below 15°C increases the risk of cold-water shock, with officials urging first-time winter swimmers to consider medical advice before entering.
- Two men, including Matthew Upham, remain missing after the Budleigh Salterton incident; extensive RNLI and coastguard searches found no sign and were later stood down, and bystanders are urged to call 999 or 112 rather than attempt rescues.