Beach Safety...Important Tips to Remember!

If you’ve ever been sunburned to a crisp, stung by a jellyfish, caught in a rip tide, overheated in the hot sun, or sought shelter during a lightning storm…then you know there is a lot that can ruin a vacation at the beach.

You’re probably thinking right about now, “boy this beach stuff sounds like fun!” Well, it can be just by following a few simple steps:

• The best way to be safe at the beach is to learn to swim. You’re never too young (my kids learned as little tykes) or too old (check with your doctor first).
Contact the YMCA, Red Cross or your local community pool for swim classes.
• Try to swim near a lifeguard station, and in areas designated for swimming. Observe beach condition warnings and flags. Call 911 if you have an emergency and no lifeguard is on duty.
• Swim with a buddy or group. And don’t dive in shallow or unfamiliar water.
• Never leave a child alone near the water! Don’t rely on water wings or inflatable toys to protect the kids. If you or your child need a life jacket it should be U.S. Coast Guard approved.
• Save the cocktails for after swimming. Too much alcohol can impair judgment and also dehydrate you.
• Rip currents can be extremely dangerous. If you’re caught in one, stay calm and swim parallel to the shore until you are out of the current and then swim back to shore. If you are unable to get back on your own, then float or tread water and wave for help.

• Use plenty of sunscreen with at least SPF 15 or higher. If you are fair skinned, think about going a lot higher. Try to limit your time in the sun between 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. Take it easy on the sun-bathing! There’s nothing worse than burning your first day of vacation, and then suffering the rest of the time. If you do get burned, there are many wonderful sunburn relief lotions available. Our favorite is aloe burn relief gel. One more thing, don’t forget to protect your lips with UV protection.
• Beach safety should also include protecting your eyes. Sunglasses with UV protection can help avoid sun damage to your eyes.
• Don’t forget your sandals or shoes. Sand can get hot, especially in the summer. Your shoes will also protect you form broken shells, rocks or glass while walking on the beach.
• Drink plenty of water! Keep yourself hydrated even if you don’t feel thirsty.
• Seek first aid for any beach injury (such as Man of War or Jellyfish stings).
• And one more thing to remember. Florida weather can be beautiful and unpredictable. If you see a storm approaching, hear thunder and or lightning, seek shelter when possible. Read here to learn more: National Weather Service