Open water swimmers urged to follow safety advice

Advice has been issued to open water swimmers

A warning's been issued to anyone considering open water swimming during the warmer weather to plan thoroughly before setting out.

The Isle of Man Harbours and Coastguard team has published guidance on steps swimmers can take to stay safe.

It includes being mindful of strong currents, weather conditions, boat traffic, difficult terrain and debris, as well as a call to swim with someone else.

While the guidance acknowledges the benefits that sea swimming can provide to individuals, it notes that it is "essential" to be aware of potential dangers.

The advice urges anyone who finds themselves in an emergency situation in the water to signal for help, float or tread water and swim parallel to the shore if caught in a current.

The document also outlines that it is "good practice" to share intended routes and estimated return times before getting into the sea.

The advices comes as the year enters what are traditionally its warmer months, which see more people take to the water.

The safety reminder also coincides with the start of the school summer holidays.