Summer Beach Safety Tips:
From sun to water safety, review these beach tips to keep your family healthy and happy before you chill out on the sand.
The end of monsoons means one thing for The Beach Company: Beach time!
I pretty much lived at Arpora as a kid, swimming and playing in the sea, and acquiring some rocking tan lines. But I also learned early on the importance of beach and ocean safety—thanks to my dear old dad. Severe sunburns, heat stroke and swimming accidents are a reality, but they are also easy to avoid.
As you & your family heads to the beach this holiday—whether for a day trip, or a weeklong vacation—review these safety tips to ensure a fun, safe, sandy adventure.
Safety Precautions for Beach Lovers of All Ages
The first lesson I learned: Never turn your back on the ocean. Waves form quickly and can catch you by surprise. Beach safety experts agree and offer these additional precautionary tips:
Learn to swim before heading to the beach: It saves lives. If your kids aren’t strong swimmers or are just learning how to swim, make sure they stay close to shore.
Sunscreen, sunscreen, sunscreen! Reapply often, and use broad-spectrum lotion that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Young children require a higher SPF sunscreen than adults because their skin is actually thinner and more susceptible to UV rays. According to Safe Travel, a U.K.–based Web site, children can get burned in less than 10 minutes of sun exposure. Apply lotion 15 to 30 minutes before heading outside for optimal absorption. Other sun-protective measures: wear a hat and sunglasses.
Actively supervise your children at all times: According to the Aquatic Safety Research Group (ASRG), “the number-one problem at beaches is lost children.” ASRG suggests families create a ‘beach plan’: “Know where you entered the beach, where you will place your blanket, and where you will meet if and when you become separated.”
Only swim where a lifeguard is present: The United States Lifesaving Association says that swimming near a lifeguard lowers your chance of drowning to 1 in 18 million. Never swim alone—even if you’re a strong swimmer.
Don’t dive head first into the ocean. Murky, sandy water can obscure underwater obstacles in the shallows. Protect your neck by always entering the ocean feet first.
Avoid alcohol: It not only inhibits judgment, it accelerates dehydration, too. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water regularly.
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