Sharpen your skills and stay safe in Scotland's lakes, rivers, and seas with Water Rescue Scotland’s two-day Wild Swimming Safety course at Earnhill House, Forres. Ideal for confident swimmers ready to master cold water immersion and rescue techniques.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2 days
Fitness Level
Participants should be confident swimmers in good physical condition able to handle cold water immersion and physical exertion.
Wildlife
History
Forres has a rich history dating back to medieval Scotland, with nearby landmarks reflecting its traditional role as a market and naval town.
Conservation
Water Rescue Scotland emphasizes sustainable outdoor practice, promoting respectful interaction with waterways to protect fragile aquatic ecosystems.
Water Rescue Scotland
Sharpen your skills and stay safe in Scotland's lakes, rivers, and seas with Water Rescue Scotland’s two-day Wild Swimming Safety course at Earnhill House, Forres. Ideal for confident swimmers ready to master cold water immersion and rescue techniques.
Water Rescue Scotland provides practical, field-based water safety and rescue training across Scotland. The organisation delivers targeted courses for people who swim in open water and for professionals who work near rivers, lakes and coastlines. Water Rescue Scotland’s Wild Swimming Safety course is taught with a Cold Water Immersion Facilitator and includes full board accommodation at Earnhill House, offering a structured environment for learning and recovery.
The Rescue 3 - Safe Working near Water course is a focused, 6-hour programme covering hydrology, risk assessments and emergency protocols designed for personnel who must operate safely at the water’s edge without entering the water. Both courses emphasise hands-on skill development, situational awareness and clear, repeatable safety procedures.
Instruction is delivered through practical drills, scenario-based exercises and guided discussion to reinforce risk management and emergency response. Water Rescue Scotland is featured on The Adventure Collective, providing a visible listing for those researching reputable outdoor and water-based training. Course descriptions specify content, the role of a Cold Water Immersion Facilitator on the wild swimming offering, and the single-day Rescue 3 format to help prospective participants choose the right experience.
Water Rescue Scotland keeps course information transparent and factual: course names, training topics, accommodation details and session length are stated up front. This approach helps swimmers, land-based professionals and organisers make informed decisions about water safety training options in Scotland.
Location
Scotland
Based in Scotland
Courses Offered
2 courses
Wild swimming and rescue training
Accommodation
Earnhill House
Full board accommodation available
Course Length
6 hours (Rescue 3)
Single-day Rescue 3 training
Secure a spot on Wild Swimming Safety or Rescue 3 — check dates and accommodation at Earnhill House.
Understand Cold Water Risks
Cold water can cause shock and hypothermia; always enter slowly and swim with a buddy.
Wear a Wetsuit or Neoprene Gear
Use appropriate thermal protection during colder months to maintain core temperature safely.
Learn Rescue Signals
Communication and signaling techniques are vital for alerting helpers and staying safe in open water.
Check Weather and Tides
Conditions change rapidly; plan sessions around weather forecasts and tidal movements for optimal safety.
Wetsuit or Dry Suit
Thermal protection critical for safety and comfort in cold water environments.
fall|winter|spring
Swim Cap
Helps retain heat and improves visibility in open water conditions.
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Neoprene Gloves and Booties
Protect extremities from cold to improve endurance and safety.
fall|winter
Whistle or Safety Beacon
Vital for signaling in case of emergency during swims.
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