Beach Safety Tips

By: Bruno Brunini, Esq.

We have all heard the phrase life is a beach. Just as in life, the beach while being a great place to visit and live, can also be hazardous. We may never give it a second thought, when we are packing our belongings and head to the car for the drive down or up to the shore.

I have already blogged about motor vehicle accidents and fireworks as events we should be careful about. There are many potential hazards at the beach. Swimming is one potential hazard. Never swim alone. Also swim when lifeguards are present whether, it is at the beach or a pool. This is due to rip currents and shore breaks being unpredictable. The chances of drowning are greatly reduced in the presence of a lifeguard. Keep a look-out for your young children and animals as they usually excel at finding trouble.

Further, when in the ocean or bay, keep an eye out for marine life. While most of the marine life is harmless, sharks, jellyfish and other predator fish can be dangerous. While a Sharknado will be left to another blog since they are above ground, you just need to be vigilant when swimming in the water.

Sun protection is also important. Harmful solar ultraviolet rays may cause skin cancer. So please use appropriate clothing, umbrellas and sunscreen. You should also avoid drinking alcohol on the beach. It is a known fact that alcohol reduces body temperature and may impair your swimming ability. Also keep an eye for water quality. Polluted water can cause gastrointestinal issues, ear infections and/or other medical issues.

You should also keep an eye out for your belongings, children and pets. The beach is a known place where anyone of these may be taken. Initially, avoid bringing any valuables to the beach. If you do bring valuables to the beach, have someone remain with them while you are in the water. They also sell waterproof gear that you can wear while in the water or small portable safes to attach to umbrellas or beach chairs.

This blog was not intended to scare you away from the beach. Just some things to think about.

Watch out for those Land Sharks and enjoy the Summer!

Sources: www.americanredcross.org
www.skincancer.org
www.noaa.gov
www.webmd.com