Wild Water Swimming at Hippersons statement

 Wild water swimming is not an activity that we are able to insure for any of our guests to do, so we have to respectfully ask you not to do so whilst visiting.

 In these days when swimming pools are harder to access, and especially when the weather is hot, we understand the temptation to swim is great. If you want to arrange a safe swimming session, then you can book a slot, 7 days in advance, at the Lido swimming pool in Beccles. Details of how to book will be included on our welcome e mail which we will send 10 days in advance to allow you to book one of these sought after slots.

 If you don’t manage to get a slot at the Lido, the beach at Gorleston is a lovely sandy beach with a great cafe. We always recommend you put JayJays beach cafe postcode in your satnav, and this will take you to parking at the cliffs. (NR31 6BT). The beach at Gorleston and the beach at Lowestoft have lifeguards working throughout the peak season, which is worth a Google to find out times for 2021.

 We do know that some of our guests are regular wild water swimmers, and sometimes the temptation will be too great. Even though you know we are not insured and respectfully ask you not too, for those of you who still want to there are a few things you need to know.

 The basin is a safer place to swim than on the tidal river where there is also a lot of river traffic.

 Children must never be unsupervised in a tidal river. That is anyone under the age of 16 years.

 Boats are moving in and out of the basin between 9 and 5, and swimming near boats is extremely dangerous as the propellers can cause fatal accidents.

 The bottom of the basin is deep mud and there may be sharp objects or debris so always wear wet shoes.

 There are lots of weeds at the bottom of the basin, make sure you don’t get tangled in them.

 There are lifebuoys on each of the floating accommodations, although access and egress are safer on the floating pontoons.

 Be aware that guests fish (in season) in the basin and on the river, so always swim clear of the fishing lines.

 The following information is taken from the Broads Authority website, where there are further useful links should you require them https://www.broads-authority.gov.uk/boating/navigating-the-broads/outdoor-swimming

 The Broads Authority strongly advises against entering the water unless part of an organised event.

 Open water swimming is a growing activity in the UK and with over 120 miles of waterways, the demand to swim within the waters of the Norfolk and Suffolk Broads is continually increasing.

However, while recognising benefits to the health and well-being of participants, a balanced assessment must be undertaken as swimming in the Broads carries numerous risks:

•        Cold water shock can cause involuntary gasp reflex and cold incapacitation even in summer. Jumping in can cause you to involuntarily breathe in under water or to hyperventilate and panic. Staying in cool water too long can cause your muscles to lose power and make swimming and getting out of the water difficult, both of which can lead to drowning.

•        Hypothermia can be caused by getting too cold and not warming up fully after swimming. If swimming outdoors, consider wearing a wet suit, always enter the water gradually, know where you can get out, don't stay in too long and remember to try and get warm quickly. More information can be found at the Outdoor Swimming Society website.

•        Strong tidal currents in the Broads rivers can cause fatigue and make exiting the water very difficult. Anyone considering swimming should only do so if they know their capabilities, check the tides and plan exit points carefully.

•        Water weeds/plants are common throughout the broads and are an important part of the river system. These are high risk to swimmers and can cause entanglement. We strongly advise not to swim in areas with a high density of water plants, however if you find yourself caught it is important not to panic and to swim downstream using your arms only.

•        Deep mud can cause difficulties and swimmers should avoid shallow water at all times.

•        The presence of hidden obstructions under the water can cause serious injury and swimmers should take care entering the water and never dive in.

•        Blue Green Algae can be present in the water when conditions are right. Whilst some blue green algae may not harmful, it is not advisable to enter the water where any blue green algae is present.

•        Visibility in the water is something swimmers must also be aware of. The Broads is very busy with boats all year round, but especially through the summer season. If you are swimming in a wetsuit, it is very hard to spot you from a boat. If you are thinking of swimming in the rivers, we highly recommend you wear a bright swimming hat and use a tow float to ensure you are easily spotted at a distance and boat users can make sure they allow you enough room.

•        Swimmers may also be tempted to enter the river using the safety ladders located on Broads Authority moorings. This is a very dangerous place to enter the water as vessels will be constantly manoeuvring to either come alongside or move out into the river.