Drowning Prevention Week: Cold Water Shock Cold Water Shock Water below 15°C is considered cold and can quickly affect breathing and movement. In the UK and Ireland, water temperatures are often around 12°C, with rivers frequently colder—even in summer. RNLI advice on Cold Water Shock: If you enter the water unexpectedly: Take a moment — cold water shock passes within the first minute Relax and float to live Once calm, call for help or swim to safety if you can If you are planning to enter the water: Check conditions, including water temperature Wear an appropriate wetsuit where possible Use a flotation device to reduce risk