Whether you're planning your first wild swim or you're a seasoned open water swimmer, enjoying the water safely goes hand in hand with protecting the places we love. In this blog, cold water swim coach, paddleboarder and author Gilly McArthur shares practical advice for staying safe in open water while helping to preserve the UK's rivers, lakes and coastlines. From understanding cold water shock to respecting wildlife and leaving no trace, her guidance will help you enjoy every swim responsibly.