A 51-year-old man was seen in trouble off the Brighton coast at around 10.30am and despite the efforts of emergency services, he was pronounced dead at the scene
A man in his 50s tragically lost his life after encountering difficulties while swimming in the sea on New Year’s Day. The 51-year-old was spotted struggling off the coast of Brighton around 10:30am. Authorities are not treating the death as suspicious.
Emergency services, including the police, coastguard and paramedics, were all present at the scene where the man was pulled from the water. Despite their best efforts, medical assistance could not revive him.
A representative for Sussex Police stated: “Police were alerted to a man who had been recovered from the sea after getting into difficulty to the west of Brighton Palace Pier at around 10.35am on Thursday, January 1. A 51-year-old man from Kettering was brought to shore and received medical attention. Sadly, he was pronounced dead at the scene. His next of kin have been informed.”, reports the Mirror.
In late December, the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) issued a warning urging people to exercise caution when participating in festive open water swims.
The lifeboat search-and-rescue charity highlighted that the effects of cold water shock, coupled with weather conditions, pose a significant risk to anyone entering water that is 15C or below, particularly during this time of year when the average sea temperature around the UK and Ireland ranges between 6C to 10C.
This warning came in the wake of the disappearance of Matthew Upham, 63, and another man during a Christmas Day swim in the Devon seaside town of Budleigh Salterton.
Gareth Morrison, head of water safety for the RNLI, warned on Tuesday: “We know this time of year many people take part in festive and New Year dips or continue to take part in regular winter swims.”
He urged: “So, we are urging anyone entering the water to be aware of the dangers, check sea conditions carefully and to understand their own limitations.”
He added: “With the sea temperatures still dropping and reaching their coldest around March, the effects of cold water, combined with weather conditions and any personal health issues, should be taken seriously before venturing in.”
He advised: “If it’s your first time in open water, we’d recommend you speak to your GP first, particularly for those with cardiac or underlying health conditions.”
The RNLI issued advice to open water swimmers and participants in New Year dips to take precautions before entering the water. Mr Morrison suggested: “Avoid swimming alone, consider going with others or joining a group so you can look out for each other,” He also said: “Think about the depth of water – wherever possible, stay in your depth.”
He further recommended: “If you are going to attend a New Year dip, please ensure you go to a well-organised event which has appropriate safety cover in place.”
He emphasised: “Also taking the right kit is essential. We’d recommend wearing a wetsuit to keep you warm and increase your buoyancy, together with a bright swim cap and tow float to make yourself visible to others and use in an emergency.”