Not to go all Teresa Mannion on you, but take heed of this warning before you set out for your annual Christmas Day dip.
The folks at Irish Water Safety have warned that the Christmas full moon will cause strong tidal streams and will increase the strength and speed of rip currents on the Irish coast.
According to The Times, the warning has been issued as we mark the first Christmas full moon since 1977 and the last until 2034.
Although the IWS notes that seasoned swimmers will know their tides, they did caution that some may take chances “beyond what is acceptably safe” and may not be able to climb out of the water due to the extreme cold.
They add: “It is a fallacy that alcohol will keep you warm when entering the water.
“In fact, it has the reverse effect and could kill you.”
Organisers are encouraged to provide full details of planned events t0 the Irish Coast Guard or the Gardaí.
