Whether you’re planning a family trip or a quick day by the water, a little preparation can help prevent accidents. Here are some important beach safety tips to know before you go:
Before You Go
- Check the weather forecast
- Pack plenty of water
- Set clear, safety rules for your children beforehand
- Bring sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher)
- Pack hats, sunglasses, and shade options
- Review beach warning flags and swimming conditions
Sun Safety Matters
Even on cloudy days, UV rays can cause increase the risk of sunburn and even worse, skin cancer.
Protect yourself by:
- Applying sunscreen 15-30 minutes before going outside
- Reapplying every 2 hours and after swimming
- Wearing sunglasses that block UV rays
- Taking breaks in the shade, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- Drinking water throughout the day
Signs of Heat Exhaustion
- Heavy sweating
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Nausea
- Muscle cramps
What to do: Move to shade, drink water, and cool down immediately. For more detailed instructions, visit the Red Cross site here.
Keep Children Safe Near Water
- Stay within arm’s reach of young children.
- Designate one adult as the “Water Watcher.”
- Avoid distractions like phones while supervising.
- Use properly fitted life jackets when appropriate.
- Teach children to swim only where lifeguards are present.
Be Educated and Informed on Rip Currents
A rip current is a powerful channel of water that flows away from shore. They can form on calm, sunny days and may be difficult to spot.
Warning signs may include:
- A narrow channel of choppy or darker-looking water
- A break in the pattern of incoming waves
- Water carrying sand, seaweed, or debris away from shore
- A section of water that looks noticeably calmer than the surrounding waves
If You or a Loved One Are Caught in a Rip Current
Don’t panic. Don’t try to fight the current or you will become exhausted.
A rip current won’t pull you underwater, but it can quickly carry you away from shore.
- Stay calm and conserve your energy.
- Float or tread water if needed.
- Swim parallel to the shoreline until you are out of the current.
- Once free, swim at an angle back toward shore.
- If you’re unable to reach shore, float, wave your arms, and call for help.
If Someone Else Is Caught in a Rip Current
Alert a lifeguard immediately, call 911 if emergency assistance is needed, and avoid entering the water yourself unless you are trained in water rescue.
