A recent poll revealed that a quarter of Brits are more likely to take risks duringwarmer weather, with one in three confessing to swimmingpost-drinking alcohol. The poll of 2,000 adults indicated that 20 per cent don't recognise the danger of taking a swim after a drink or two in the summer, unaware that alcoholis involved in a quarter of drowning incidents.
Peer pressure and a lack of understanding about the dangers were cited as the main reasons behind people choosing to swim under the influence. Yet, many are oblivious to the fact that heat can intensify the effects of alcohol.
Research suggests that in the UK, the likelihood of drowning increases significantly when the air temperature soars above 20 degrees, as opposed to cooler conditions below 10 degrees.
READ MORE: Coronation Street's Antony Cotton pays devastating tribute to colleague as they die age 38
READ MORE: Ozzy Osbourne funeral details 'revealed' with moving nod to hometown
Malibu commissioned the poll and joined forces with Tom Daley to highlight the increased risk of drowning associated with hot weather and alcohol consumption.
The retiredOlympic champion is backing the initiative by sporting innovative swim shorts that change colour to yellow at 20 degrees, serving as a visual reminder of the dangers of mixing drinking with swimming during warm spells.
He said: "It was inspiring to see the impact of last year's 'Don't Drink and Dive' campaign, in raising awareness of water responsibility when drinking.
"This year, our mission remains the same: to raise awareness and change behaviour for the better, this time with a fresh summer-centric focus."
The research revealed that for 38 per cent of people, enjoying a couple of beverages beside the beach or pool ranks among their top holiday pleasures. Yet 57 per cent of those who drink acknowledge it's far too easy to lose control.
Among those who've taken a dip after consuming alcohol, the swimming pool was the most popular choice (86 per cent), followed by the sea (42 per cent) and hot tubs (29 per cent).
However, 45 per cent have quickly regretted their decision, admitting they’ve struggled in the water after consuming alcohol.
Conducted via OnePoll, the survey discovered many people remained oblivious to the health dangers associated with combining drinking and swimming before participating in the research.
Cold water shock frequently becomes more challenging after swimming whilst intoxicated, with a heightened risk of hypothermia also present. Similarly, motor skills become affected and decision-making typically becomes compromised.
A spokesperson for Malibu said: "With 'Don't Drink and Dive' back for round two, we're here to remind the nation of the increased drowning risk in hot weather.
"As temperatures rise, people are naturally drawn to the outdoors, so it's important to remind Brits that the risk increases when they become less cautious in these conditions, after all, one in four drownings involve alcohol.
"We encourage the nation to have fun this summer and stay responsible."
Sam Hill, researcher at Bournemouth University, added: "What should be a fun day near the water can turn into a high-risk situation when you combine alcohol and heat.
"Don't Drink and Dive' sheds an important light on these dangers and encourages everyone to drink and enjoy the water responsibly this summer."
You may also like
'Chuck E, come with me': Pizza outlet mascot arrested in Florida; charged with credit card fraud
Coronation Street fans switch off minutes in over glaring ITV issue
Lauren James injury update given as England set time-frame for Euro 2025 final decision
Britain's Got Talent judge quits panel as huge star 'in talks' to take over iconic gig
'Tarrif, not negotiation': Trump says he doesn't expect Canada trade deal; August 1 deadline set for 35% duty