The ocean is a wonderful place to spend a day, whether you are swimming, surfing, exploring tide-pools, or any of the other many activities. By always following a few simple safety tips you can prevent some of the more common accidents and injuries that occur in the ocean environment. Below are six basic safety tips you should always follow at the beach.
#1 ALWAYS SWIM NEAR A LIFEGUARD
Always choose a beach with a lifeguard on duty.
#2 IF YOU NEED HELP WAVE YOUR ARMS
Playing in the ocean it can be fun, it can also be dangerous. If you get into trouble while in the water, signal for help by waving your arms above the water towards the shore.
#3 HOW TO GET OUT OF A RIP CURRENT
Rip currents are rivers of water that can pull you out to sea. If you become caught in a rip current, DON’T PANIC. Swim parallel to shore or tread water until help arrives.
#4 OBSERVE ALL WARNING SIGNS
Each year thousands of beach visitors are rescued from life-threatening conditions. Prevent this from occurring to you by observing all warning signs and asking the lifeguard for safety advice.
#5 SUPERVISE YOUR CHILDREN
When lifeguards are on duty, they are watching for problems, but can not see everything. If you bring small children to the beach, watch them carefully.
#6 ALWAYS REMEMBER – SAFETY FIRST
By following these easy safety tips you can help make sure that your visit to the beach is both safe and fun. Be sure to check out our other Ocean Safety topics, The Sun, The Surf, The Sand, And You for more tips and information.