Staying Safe at the Beach

The sun, the sand, the waves – it’s hard not to love the beach!  This is why so many people have this as their main summer vacation destination.  Although limitless fun, there are precautions that you must take to keep you and your fellow vacationers safe while you’re there. On top of all the safeguards you should take for keeping you and your valuables safe while at your hotel or resort, there are many guidelines to follow while actually on the beach itself.

Sand

While you may think everyone is perfectly safe while on the sand, you should be aware that there are dangers in digging holes too deep.  People, especially children, have been suffocated by the sand quickly overcoming them in a hole they recently dug.  There is also litter all over beaches that may cut your foot, or even perhaps a sea creature waiting to sting or bite you.  Always keep your eye on the young or elderly, and watch your step!

Rip Currents

Perhaps one of the most threatening dangers at the beach is a rip current.  These strong and often deadly currents can drag you far away from shore and quickly drown a weak or inexperienced swimmer.  You can rarely swim against a current, so the rule of safety for someone caught in a rip current is to swim parallel to the shoreline with the current until you find yourself out of it.  Call for help in order to get attention from a lifeguard or anyone near you.  Avoid structures or sandbars in the ocean, as rip currents are frequently near these.  As always, the young, elderly, and inexperienced swimmers should wear lifejackets any time they are near the water.

Sea Life

Keep a watchful eye on marine life!  Sharks, jellyfish, stingrays, algae – all these can pose a threat to ocean swimmers.  Always be on the alert for living creatures around you.

Sun

We all know the dangers of the sun, but trips to the beach are particularly dangerous for sunburns.  Whether it’s falling asleep sunbathing or having the sun reflected off the ocean, be sure to avoid situations leaving your skin exposed without protection.  Bring a beach umbrella with you or plan on regularly reapplying your sunscreen throughout the day (setting an alarm may help).

Nightlife

Typically tourists are prime targets for scams or theft at the beach.  As you are going out on the boardwalk at night, be sure to have fun but play it smart.  Keep your wallet or purse near you at all times.  Don’t just place your phone down on the bar - keep it in your pocket instead.  Only carry small amounts of cash on you at a time.  Instead of wearing your expensive jewelry on vacation, swap it out for costume.  Always research any “deal” you are being offered before handing over a check or cash.  Stay in groups and never got out alone.

For more tips on keeping your home secure while you’re gone, give us a call at Watch Guard.  We’ll keep your stuff safe so you can just focus on having fun!