If you are heading to a beach for a family vacation, make sure to follow these beach safety tips! It is important to think ahead and follow these safety tips so you are ready for any situation that may arise. The beach is a great place for families to spend the day, playing in the water, building sandcastles, or just relaxing.
Beach Safety Flags
Beaches use safety flags to warn visitors of dangerous situations. All beaches might have different colors for different situations, but they will have it posted on what they mean. Generally a green flag indicates the ocean is calm and clear. Yellow indicates moderate surf and currents, and to be cautious. Red indicates the beach is closed or that it has a strong surf and current and to be careful. Blue or Purple means potentially dangerous marine life (sharks or jellyfish, etc.) is spotted in the area. NOTE: all beaches are different, so make sure to be aware of what the flags mean at the beach you are going to.
Protect Yourself From the Sun
Most beaches are open so you can’t find many shaded spots. Make sure to bring a beach umbrella. Pack some good sunscreen to protect from sunburns and harmful UV rays. Also pack drinks to stay hydrated in the heat. If you have a floppy hat and sunglasses, that helps to on protecting yourself from the sun and the heat.
Wear Shoes
The sand can be very hot, and you want to make sure you have shoes on your kids and yourself. They have shoes that you can wear in the water, it is worth buying some. If you don’t want to wear those, at least wear flip flops, you don’t want anyone’s feet to burn.
Safe Swim Areas
Most beaches have designated areas for swimming. Not all areas on the beach are safe, so make sure to look for marked spots that are designated.
Be Aware of Ocean Life
Depending on the area you are in, you need to be aware of ocean life. You might come across crabs, they are well known for pinching so be careful. They could be hiding in little rocks and such if you are out exploring. When you are in the water being aware for jellyfish and other ocean life.
All beaches are different, so remember the rules, conditions vary. The lifeguard that is on duty is a great person to go to for your questions. Enjoy your day at the beach and be safe.