WITH summer fast approaching many of us will be taking to the outdoors and enjoying the lakes and fells Cumbria has on offer. 

Some people in the area may be enjoying water-based activities, in particularly wild swimming, which is growing increasingly popular. 

But there are of course some risks involved with wild swimming. 

READ MORE: Wild swimming in the Lake District

We spoke to Suzanna Cruickshank of Suzanna Swims to find out more about wild swimming and how to do it correctly. 

Suzanna said: "As a wild swimming guide my job involves getting people into our beautiful lakes safely.

"I run outdoor swim sessions all year round aimed at giving swimmers the skills to identify risks, make good decisions, and keep themselves safe.

"For too long the advice has been open water is deep and cold, and that it can kill, yet guidance for safe outdoor swimming has been severely lacking.

"Giving people the skills to make decisions themselves is far better than scare tactics. 

"It’s clear from the rise of people swimming outside not just in mild weather but in winter too that it can be done safely and enjoyably."

READ MORE: Wild swimming package at Armathwaite Hall Hotel & Spa offers health benefits

Suzanna has run her business since 2018 and specialises in confidence-building for new and nervous swimmers. She also offers fun swims and adventures and is qualified in a number of areas to provide a safe and enjoyable experience. 

She shared with us some of her top tips on enjoying the open water whilst remaining responsible.

Suzanna said: "No location is ‘safe’. What makes it safe is you as a swimmer and your ability to assess the situation and location. 

"Get in slowly, don’t jump. Leaping in might make a great Instagram photo, but if you are unacclimatised or unaccustomed to cold water, this is the quickest way to suffer cold water shock and can be fatal. Never jump in without first checking the depth, even in a location you are familiar with. 

"Know your limits. Tempting as it is, especially on a warm day, don’t stay in too long or overestimate your ability. Build your confidence by swimming parallel to the shore."

There are also other tips like avoiding alcohol when venturing into the water and watching out for other people who are using the lake.