Open water still too cold for swimming despite warm weather, rescue organization says

People who want to cool off in open water in the coming days during the warm weather should be aware that the water will still be very cold, the rescue organization Reddingsbrigade Nederland has warned. “People forget sometimes that it is not August,” a spokesperson said. The sea water is currently around 11 degrees Celsius, inland the water can be slightly warmer.

“Enjoy the weather, put your feet in the water or go up to your knees, but do not take the risk of spending a long time in the water,” the spokesperson for the rescue organization said.

According to the spokesperson, spending too long in the water can lead to hypothermia or cold shock. “You can get cramps in your arms or legs, something that you don’t want to happen while being in the water.”

The rescue organization said that the number of people getting into trouble due to the cold water is not that high. “Generally, we see people getting back out of the water themselves after they have set their first step because it is much too cold.”

The Royal Dutch Swimming Federation advises people not to swim outside when the water temperature is below 15 degrees Celsius.