AquaLog

Back to App

Frequently Asked Questions

Your questions, answered. Remember to always prioritize safety.

App & Installation

How do I install AquaLog on my phone's home screen?

You can install AquaLog on your mobile device's home screen for quick, app-like access. This is called a Progressive Web App (PWA) and it even works offline!

For iOS (Safari)

  1. Open AquaLog in your Safari browser.
  2. Tap the 'Share' button at the bottom of the screen (it's an icon with a square and an arrow pointing up).
  3. Scroll down and tap on 'Add to Home Screen'.
  4. Confirm by tapping 'Add' in the top-right corner.

For Android (Chrome)

  1. Open AquaLog in your Chrome browser.
  2. Tap the three-dot menu icon in the top-right corner.
  3. Tap 'Install app' or 'Add to Home screen' from the menu.
  4. Follow the on-screen prompts to confirm the installation.

I saw a 'Server Error' when launching the app from my phone's home screen. What should I do?

This is an intermittent issue we are aware of that can sometimes happen when the PWA (Progressive Web App) is launched from a 'cold start'. It's related to how the application wakes up.

The good news is, there's a simple fix: Just terminate the app process on your phone and click the app icon again. It should launch perfectly on the second try.

We have implemented a fix in version 1.4.3 that should prevent this from happening. If you continue to see this error, please let us know.

Screenshot of the PWA server error.

Example of the intermittent server error.

General Safety

Who should avoid cold water swimming?

Individuals with heart problems, untreated high blood pressure, or asthma should avoid cold water swimming. It's best to consult a doctor if you have any pre-existing health conditions.

How should I enter the water?

Enter the water slowly to give your body time to adjust to the temperature and to control your breathing.

What are the warning signs to leave the water immediately?

Leave the water immediately if you start to feel unwell or experience cramps.

How long can I stay in the water?

Listen to your body. Exit the water as soon as you feel uncomfortable or notice the first signs of hypothermia.

What are the signs of hypothermia?

Look out for uncontrollable shivering, confusion, fatigue, and loss of coordination.

What should I do in an emergency?

Always swim with a partner and have an emergency plan ready in advance. Be sure you know the location of the nearest emergency services.

Is there a rule of thumb?

A good rule of thumb is: never swim for more minutes than the water temperature is in degrees Celsius. For example, if the water temperature is 6°C, you should not stay in the water for more than 6 minutes.

Gear & Preparation

How can I prepare for cold water swimming?

Start with shorter swims in cooler water and gradually increase the duration while slowly decreasing the water temperature. This allows your body to better adapt.

What gear do I need?

Pre-Swim

  • Clothes without buttons and shoes without laces are easy to put on and take off.
  • A warm winter jacket without buttons.
  • Fingerless, fluffy winter gloves.
  • A towel to stand on to keep your feet warm while you are changing your clothes.

Swim

  • A waterproof stopwatch.
  • Swim trunks or a swimsuit.
  • A swimming cap.
  • A Lycra surf shirt with short sleeves.Optional
  • A neoprene top.Optional
  • Neoprene gloves and booties.Optional
  • A tow float for increased visibility and safety.

Post-Swim

  • A large, absorbent towel for drying off.

Should I protect my head?

Yes, you should always keep your head warm. Wear a swimming cap and avoid putting your head under the water. Over a third of your body heat is lost through the head. Neoprene gloves and booties also protect your hands and feet.

How do I warm up after a swim?

Remove wet clothes immediately, dry yourself off thoroughly, and dress in warm layers. Avoid hot showers or baths right after swimming, as this can be dangerous.