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RNLI Warns: Cold-Water Swimming Risky This Christmas

12/30/2025

Summary

Story summary

The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) warns that cold-water swimming is risky during the festive season after the Christmas Day disappearance of Matthew Upham, a 63-year-old man who tried to help a woman at Budleigh Salterton, Devon.
The RNLI advises wearing wetsuits, swimming with others, and calling emergency services instead of entering the water to aid someone.
Several organized swims are still set to proceed, with safety measures in place.

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Story summary

The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) warns that cold-water swimming is risky during the festive season after the Christmas Day disappearance of Matthew Upham, a 63-year-old man who tried to help a woman at Budleigh Salterton, Devon.
The RNLI advises wearing wetsuits, swimming with others, and calling emergency services instead of entering the water to aid someone.
Several organized swims are still set to proceed, with safety measures in place.