Don't jump in: council and RNLI renew Thames safety warning
30 June 2026 · By Boroughly editorial — AI-assisted, human-reviewed.
With summer temperatures encouraging people to cool off near the river, Richmond Council and its emergency partners are urging residents not to swim or jump into the Thames at Teddington Lock — a spot that can look inviting but carries serious hidden risks.
Cold water shock is the most immediate danger: even on a hot day, the Thames runs far colder than it appears on the surface, and the sudden drop in temperature can cause the body to gasp involuntarily, making it easy to inhale water. Shallow sections, submerged debris and strong currents add further hazards that are invisible from the bank.
The warning has been issued jointly by Richmond Council, the RNLI Teddington Lifeboat Station, London Fire Brigade, the Metropolitan Police and the Environment Agency. While Teddington Lock is in the neighbouring stretch of river, it is a popular destination for Barnes residents heading out along the towpath on warm days — and the same risks apply at any unguarded point along the Thames foreshore in SW13.
The RNLI's advice is consistent: swim only at designated, lifeguarded locations, never enter the water after drinking alcohol, and if you see someone in difficulty, call 999 immediately rather than entering the water yourself.
Full guidance on enjoying the river safely is available on the Richmond Council website.