If you’re planning on going to the beach, it’s crucial to take some safety measures to prevent drowning or getting caught in a rip current. According to the United States Lifesaving Association, rip currents are responsible for 80 percent of beach rescues.
These currents can form rapidly in vast open water, making them particularly hazardous for those who are snorkeling. It’s also worth noting that drowning is the top cause of death in children below the age of four, with most incidents taking place in unguarded beaches.
So, always keep these tips in mind and stay safe while enjoying your time at the beach.
Rip currents at the beach
If you go to the beach, you should know how to avoid rip currents. This kind of current is more dangerous than undertows because it moves along the surface of the water and can extend far from shore.
An undertow, on the other hand, is the water sinking back downhill into the sea and is not nearly as strong as a rip current. Still, it can knock you out of the water and carry you away, but it isn’t very strong and won’t take you very far.
If you get knocked down by a rip current, you’ll be right in the middle of the next big wave.
If you know how to swim in a rip current, you’ll be safer and more comfortable at the beach. Rip currents occur in all types of weather conditions and can even happen on a quiet beach.
Those who are not good swimmers tend to panic and swim against the current, which will exhaust them and increase their risk of drowning. To avoid this, you can simply bobble with the current and swim towards the shore.
Jellyfish
If you are heading to the beach, there are a few jellyfish safety tips you must remember. First, do not swim off the beach when a large number of jellyfish have washed up. Even dead jellyfish contain venom and can sting when touched.
When in doubt, always keep your distance and swim near a shoreline that has no jellyfish. If you can, wear protective clothing and watch for warning signs, such as a purple beach flag.
Be prepared to take immediate action if a jellyfish stings you. Apply a first aid solution of vinegar. Vinegar, a weak acid, can prevent the jellyfish’s stingers from firing.
Also, avoid rubbing or scrubbing the sting. If the sting is severe, apply tweezers or a plastic card to the affected area to remove the tentacles.
Stingrays
The most important thing to remember when visiting a stingray habitat is to stay away from them. These rays can be very aggressive and they can hurt you if you step on them.
Always remember that they have razor-sharp barbs on their tails and they may flip up their tails if they get scared. You can also use a stingray shuffle to try to get them to move away from you.
Hot water is a great treatment option for stingray stings. The heat helps to inactivate the venom and alleviate the pain.
If the sting is severe, go to the emergency room to have the barb removed. If you do not know how to remove the barbs, check with a lifeguard at the beach.
However, if you do not know anyone there, it is best to stay far away from the water to avoid any stingray-related incidents.
Sea urchins
There are several safety tips to consider before heading to the beach to swim with sea urchins. The most common way to avoid stepping on one is to observe others while swimming.
Sea urchins are small, spiked creatures that can live in cold or warm water. They’re also often found in shallow waters. Regardless of their size, you should avoid swimming near them, as they can cause an inadvertent sting.
A sea urchin sting can be extremely painful, so it’s important to stay away from the sea urchin during your trip.
You might not notice it, but young children will often pick them up without realizing that they’re stinging you. The sting is immediate, and the skin will often have a bruised or blue-black appearance.
The infection that follows can be serious, causing respiratory failure or even death.
Packing reef shoes for the beach
If you’re going to the beach, you’ll need to pack water shoes. Not only can these help protect your feet from sharp rocks and coral, they’re also more comfortable than flip flops.
If you don’t have water shoes, you risk getting a nasty infection if you step on them!
These shoes also dry quickly and don’t collect sand. Whether you’re a beach bum or a seasoned adventurer, water shoes are an excellent choice.
There are two main styles of water shoes: slip-ons and lace-ups.
Slip-ons are easier to slip on than lace-ups, but don’t have the same ankle support as water-friendly lace-ups. Non-water shoes are also bulky, and they disrupt fluid movements under water and add weight even when not submerged.
Water shoes are made to be worn on dry and underwater surfaces, and they feature sipped outsoles to move water to one side when you’re making contact with it. A water-resistant outsole is also helpful for traction.
Staying well hydrated
Staying hydrated while you are at the beach is important for two reasons. First, alcohol can cause dehydration because it robs the body of water.
Avoid drinking alcohol in the sun or during the hotter months. It also adds excess calories to the body, so drinking water is essential.
Second, avoid drinking caffeinated beverages as they will increase your risk of dehydration.
Another safety tip for going to the beach is to stay well hydrated. Many people do not realize the importance of staying well hydrated while at the beach.
Even though most drownings occur when individuals swim alone, it is always better to have a companion at the beach just in case. It is also safer to dive into the water feet first than headfirst.
When entering the water, do not assume that the water is shallow because soft sand will hide rocks.
Never dive in headfirst. If you do, you can suffer from spine or neck injuries!
Final thoughts on safety tips when going to the beach
In conclusion, going to the beach can be a fun and relaxing experience, but it’s important to prioritize safety to avoid any potential dangers.
Remember to follow the tips and guidelines provided by lifeguards and other beach authorities, such as checking for rip currents and avoiding swimming alone.
Additionally, it’s crucial to keep a close eye on children and never let them out of your sight, especially in the water. By staying aware and taking precautions, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable beach experience for everyone involved.
So pack your sunscreen, grab your beach gear, and head out to soak up the sun and waves while keeping safety as a top priority.
