1. I am a capable swimmer
2. I am medically fit to undertake open water swimming.
3. I will sign in and out of the lake at each session via the swim register.
4. I will enter and exit the water at the designated point.
5. I will wear a brightly coloured swim hat for visibility at all times in the water.
6. If not wearing a wetsuit, I understand the additional risk of cold and reduced buoyancy.
7. I will exit the lake immediately if and when asked to do so by the organisers.
8. If I get into difficulty, I will roll on my back and signal for rescue by raising one arm in the air.
9. All attendees are required to meet the age criteria. No attendees under the age of 13 are permitted, while those aged 14-15 must be accompanied by a parent on site.
10. I will wear a tow float at all times.
11. I have read, understood and agree to the safety briefing.

Information found below is needed to mitigate risks associated with cold water swimming such as hypothermia and the dangers associated with the body's cold-water shock response.

Winter swimming provides a physical challenge whilst also proving benefits for mental health. By dipping into cold water you are taking yourself through a controlled stress, training your body to manage the drop in temperature and pulling your focus to your core which many report to feel meditative.

As well as improving mental health, there are benefits of cold water shock on the body's physiological response to exposure to cold water.

Cold Water Swimming guide:

Always:

* Acclimatise gradually by entering the water slowly and try to stay relaxed. It’s important you allow your breathing to regulate before setting off.
* It's essential to listen to your body—exit the water while you're still happy and not feeling too cold. Everyone's body will give them a slightly different signal about when to get out. Some people's hands may go a little bit like claws; others may feel cold on their back, and you might experience a bit of a numb jaw. It's crucial to pay attention to those cues and safely exit before you become too cold.
* Recommended - Wear earplugs which prevent cold water entering your ear canal potentially causing dizziness and nausea.
*It’s very important you warm the bodies core up as soon as you exit the water. Have lots of layers ready for when you get out of the water in the order you will be putting them back on.
* Start priming your body for the cold water now by turning your shower cold for 30 seconds each day to build up your resilience to the cold and prepare yourself mentally and physically.

Never:

* Dip if you are feeling unwell, have been drinking alcohol the night before or are suffering from any respiratory illness.
* Forget your inhaler if you have asthma.
* Dive or jump into the water (acclimatise the body to the water temperature slowly and regulate your breathing as it could be affected)

Cold water dipping or immersion will not be appropriate for certain individuals, including those who have:

- Heart conditions or high blood pressure
- Suffer from migraines
- Raynaud's disease or other blood vessel disorders
- Cold urticaria (an allergic reaction to cold temperatures)
- Pregnant women, unless otherwise advised by a doctor
- People who are currently experiencing mental health crisis or are under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Have undergone brain surgery, experienced a prior stroke, or sustained head trauma
-Epilepsy

It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before participating in cold water immersion, especially if you have any pre-existing health conditions or are taking any medications

By booking a swim at Eavestone Lake, I certify that all information I have provided is accurate and that I agree to the terms and conditions outlined above. I acknowledge the potential dangers of open water swimming, including the risk of personal injury, death, and loss or damage to property, and agree to assume full responsibility for any risks and hazards associated with this activity. I waive any liability and relinquish all claims against Yurtshire for any incidents or events that may occur while I am open water swimming at Eavestone Lake, or as a result of my participation in this activity, during the swim season. I understand that Yurtshire Ltd is not responsible for any actions of spectators or third parties during the event