If you are planning a trip to the beach this summer, it is important to
keep safety in mind. Although the beach is a great place to kick back,
relax and soak up the sun, there are a number of things that could go
wrong if you are not properly prepared. For example, swimming in the ocean
takes a different set of skills, even for experienced swimmers, so we
encourage you to keep the following in mind:
- You should only swim at lifeguard-protected beaches
- Do not venture beyond designated swimming areas
- Have young children wear protective life jackets
- Keep a close eye on children, even in shallow water
- Watch out for aquatic life, including plants & animals
- Stay at least 100 feet away from piers and jetties
You should also be aware of what to do in the event that you are pulled
out by a rip current. These currents are responsible for numerous deaths
each year. The most important thing to know is that you must stay calm
if you are caught in a current. Do not try to fight it. Swim parallel
to the shore until you are out of the current. It is not until you are
free that you should start to swim toward the shore.
Tips for Keeping Your Skin Safe from the Sun
Anytime you go to the beach, you should stay prepared by bringing plenty
of sunscreen. Just one blistering sunburn in childhood or adolescence
could double your chances of developing melanoma later on in life. Not
only that, but too much exposure to direct sunlight could also cause wrinkles,
coarse skin and sun spots. If you are swimming or sweating, make sure
to apply sunscreen every two hours.
Sudden Lightning Storms
This summer we've seen beach closures due to sudden thunder/lightning
storms. If you are at the beach and a lightning storm occurs, please follow
these precautions:
- leave the beach, piers, boardwalks and seek shelter immediately
- get out of the water
- if no shelter is available, get in your car
- do not sit under beach umbrellas - avoid metal objects as they attract lightning
When planning your beach trip, make sure to check the weather to learn
if there is a chance of thunderstorms in the beach area.
This article contains general information about medical conditions and
treatments. The information is not advice and should not be treated as
such. The information is not intended to replace the advice or diagnosis
of a physician.
If you have any specific questions about any medical matter you should
consult your doctor or other professional healthcare provider.