Beach Safety Tips

The warmer weather means fun in the sun at the beach! While you may remember to pack sunscreen many may forget to keep these summer beach safety tips in mind!:

Beach Safety:

Obey All Posted Signs: Before you head out onto the beach, look around for any warning signs or signs that pertain to the condition of the water. Look for flags flown by lifeguards to advise about dangerous water or weather conditions. Never swim in an area with a sign that says not to!

Always Check Weather Conditions: Be sure to check the weather for the day before heading out to the beach. Days with heavy wind may cause dangerous swimming conditions and other beach hazards.

Look for a lifeguard: If able, swim near a lifeguard stand. If no lifeguard is on duty, exercise caution and be sure to swim with a buddy. Do not travel far out into the water, and if conditions are rough, you should exit the water until safer conditions.

Swimming Safety:

Always wear a lifejacket: Young children or inexperienced swimmers should always wear a lifejacket of have a flotation device within reach. Weak swimmers should always have a swimming buddy around.

Never dive: You should never dive head-first into the water, especially if you cannot see the bottom. Always enter the water feet-first until you know the depth of the water.

Look for aquatic life: Keep an eye out for animal life in the water – and no, this doesn’t mean only sharks! Be aware of your surroundings and keep a look out for coral, jellyfish or sea urchins that may result in cuts or injuries.

Rip Currents: Keep a close lookout for change in currents in the water. Beachgoers should only swim in safe areas or under the watch of a lifeguard. Rip currents may appear in areas with low spots, breaks in sandbars, or near structures like piers and rocks. If you find yourself caught in a current, remember these tips:

Stay calm
Swim parallel to the shore to get out of the current. Once you are free of the current you can swim back to the shore.
If you are unable to swim sideways, float or treat water until released by the current and can swim to the shore.
If you are unable to swim away, draw attention to yourself by calling out for help and waving your arms.
Avoid swimming near piers or rock formations as currents may be disrupted in these areas. You should not swim within 100 feet of a pier.

Sun Safety:

Apply Sunscreen: Be sure to reapply sunscreen often when spending time in the sun. The CDC recommends you reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more often if you are swimming or sweating. Don’t forget to cover your ears, nose, and back of the neck too!

Wear protective clothing: If you are spending a long period of time in the sun, wear protective clothing to avoid skin damage from the sun. Lightweight long sleeves or pants will help protect you from the sun. Don’t forget your sunglasses and a hat too!

Stay Hydrated: Always keep a bottle of water nearby when you are spending time in the sun. You need to replace the water your body loses through sweating. You may be tempted to open a can of soda, but water is the best option to help you stay hydrated.

We are here when you need us! Patient First is able to evaluate and treat a wide range of illnesses and injuries. You can visit any Patient First center from 8am to 8pm, every day of the year – no appointment is needed.