The RNLI has 5 great tips if you should be unlucky enough to fall into cold water, especially on a hot day…
Respect the Water is the RNLI’s drowning prevention campaign, highlighting the risks of cold water shock. When you fall into water below 15°C, you instinctively gasp for air, increasing your chance of inhaling water. Instead, relax and float for around 90 seconds to minimise this risk.
5 steps to float
1. Fight your instinct to thrash around
2. Lean back, extend your arms and legs
3. If you need to, gently move your arms and legs to help you float
4. Float until you can control your breathing
5. Only then, call for help or swim to safety 
Underwater shot of crew training in the sea survival pool at RNLI College
Photo: RNLI / Nigel Millard
Collyweston village website 