From making sandcastles to splashing in the water, it’s a place to beat the heat and make summertime memories.  Just be sure to follow these beach safety tips to help you and your family stay safe while enjoying your time in the sand and surf.

Keep Watch

While lifeguards may be on duty during your time at the beach, it doesn’t hurt to assist in supervising, especially with your own children in the water. Whether it’s you or another family member, a trusted adult should ideally be within arm’s reach when your child is in the water. Be sure to also listen to your children in the water as drowning can happen suddenly and silently.

Be Aware of Currents

While surfing the waves can be plenty of fun, strong currents can be dangerous. Even experienced swimmers can have a rough time against them. If you or your children happen to get caught in a rip current, try to remain calm and conserve your energy. Swim out of the current in a direction towards shore. If anybody is still unable to get out of the current, call 911 and throw them a flotation device.

The Buddy System

On a hot day, the beach can become quickly crowded. Be sure everyone in your family knows where your umbrella and belongings are located. Although don’t leave any belongings unattended, have someone stay with them and take turns if necessary. For children, use the buddy system. Whether it’s going to swim or play beach volleyball, have older children accompany each other and a trusted adult accompany any younger kids.

Stay Hydrated

When planning a trip to the beach, be sure to bring a cooler with water, juice and fresh fruits and vegetables to keep you and your family hydrated. Spending hours on the beach during a sweltering hot day can potentially lead to dehydration. Alcohol can also cause dehydration, so if you do plan to drink make sure to have water as well. Symptoms of dehydration can include dizziness, weakness, dry mouth and fainting. If further medical attention is needed, call 911.

Sun Protection

Spending hours outside on a hot and sunny day, can expose you to harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays if you aren’t careful. Protect your skin at the beach by wearing a hat, sunglasses, wearing sunscreen and properly reapplying it as well as bringing a beach umbrella to sit under. Be aware that in the middle of the afternoon the sun’s rays will be at their strongest.

Happy Beach Day!

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