Highland MSP highlights wild swimming safety advice

Highlands and Islands MSP Jamie Halcro Johnston is urging people thinking of going wild swimming to make sure they understand the risks and swim as safely as possible.

With wild swimming becoming increasingly popular, and with more and more people trying it for the first time, the Scottish Conservative MSP welcomed the health benefits from the activity but said it was important to be fully prepared before entering the water.

Mr Halcro Johnston said: “The popularity of wild swimming has been growing over the last few years, and this current spell of warm weather has seen even more people give it a go.

“That’s really good news because wild swimming is great for both physical and mental good health, and allows folk to get out and enjoy Scotland in ways they might not normally.

“Given the marvellous coastline we have around the Highlands and Islands, as well as our numerous lochs and rivers, there are plenty of fantastic places to take the plunge here.

“But there are risks with wild swimming, and it is very important that people understand those risks before they take to the water.

“Fortunately, the Outdoors Swimming Society provides excellent guidance on what you can do to swim safely and I would strongly recommend anyone contemplating a swim to look at their website, especially the section on 10 tips for safe summer swimming."

The guidance is available here

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