Cold Water Swimming Safety

Staying safe while swimming for the orcas

Why Cold Water Safety Matters

Cold water swimming is an incredible way to connect with nature and support environmental awareness, but it also carries serious risks if done without preparation. Water temperatures in the Puget Sound and throughout the Pacific Northwest often stay between 45 and 55°F (7 to 13°C) year-round.

At those temperatures, cold shock, loss of coordination, and hypothermia can occur quickly, even in strong swimmers.

This page will help you understand the risks, prepare properly, and swim safely.

Before You Swim

Preparation is key to swimming safely in cold water.

✅ Check Conditions

Always check weather, tide charts, and water temperature before entering the water.
Avoid swimming during storms, strong currents, or poor visibility.

✅ Never Swim Alone

Bring a buddy or have a spotter on shore watching you.
If you are new to cold water, start in supervised areas when possible.

✅ Know Your Limits

Ease into cold water gradually and never push past your comfort zone.
If you have health concerns, especially heart or respiratory conditions, talk to your doctor before swimming.

✅ Tell Someone Your Plan

Let a friend or family member know when and where you are swimming and when you plan to be done.
Bring a cell phone in a waterproof pouch if you are swimming in a remote area.

What to Wear

The right gear helps you stay warm, visible, and safe.

🧢 Neoprene Accessories

Wear neoprene gloves, socks, and a swim cap to help retain warmth.
Add a bright-colored silicone cap over your neoprene one to improve visibility.

🦺 Tow Float or Buoy

Use a bright safety buoy or tow float for extra visibility to boats and spotters.
It can also serve as a flotation aid if you need to rest.

Entering the Water

How you enter cold water affects how your body reacts.

Enter slowly and let the water reach your neck before swimming.
Control your breathing. The first 30 seconds can trigger a cold shock response. Focus on slow, steady breaths until your body adjusts.
Move gradually and start with short swims.
Stay close to shore where you can stand if you need to.

During Your Swim

Once you are in the water, focus on awareness and control.

Stay visible and swim parallel to the shoreline within sight of your buddy.
Monitor how your body feels. If you start to feel numb or tired, end the swim right away.
Avoid overexertion since cold water strains the body more than warm water.
Always listen to your instincts and exit if something feels off.

After Your Swim

How you warm up is just as important as how you enter the water.

Exit slowly and carefully. Cold water can affect balance and coordination.
Change into warm, dry clothes immediately and put on a hat and gloves.
Drink something warm like tea or soup.
Allow 20 to 30 minutes to fully warm up. Shivering is normal and helps your body recover heat.
If you feel disoriented, weak, or extremely cold, seek medical attention. These can be signs of hypothermia.

Signs of Cold-Related Illness

🚨 Cold Shock Response (Immediate)

Gasping for air
Rapid breathing
Panic or dizziness

🚨 Hypothermia (Over Time)

Uncontrollable shivering
Slurred speech or confusion
Loss of coordination
Fatigue or drowsiness

If any of these symptoms occur, get out of the water immediately, remove wet clothing, and seek warmth and assistance.

Environmental Awareness

Swimming for the orcas means respecting the ocean and everything in it.

🌿 Leave no trace by taking all gear and trash with you.
🐚 Avoid disturbing wildlife such as seals, seabirds, and marine plants.
⚓ Swim in safe, permitted areas and wear bright colors so you are visible to boaters.
💬 Share what you know about cold water safety and orca conservation with others.

Final Reminders

Cold water swimming can be powerful and meaningful when done safely.
Each swim for the orcas should begin and end with respect: for the water, for your body, and for the whales whose home you are entering.

Be prepared. Stay visible. Listen to your body.

A safe swimmer is a strong advocate.

Resources

Learn more from trusted organizations: