The Saunders Blog

Safe in the Sand – Top Ten Tips for Beach Safety

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Our gorgeous beaches are full of fun things to do. Just be sure to keep it safe.

With the recent endorsement by the renowned Dr. Beach ranking Siesta Key Beach as the country’s number 2 beach—using 50 criteria including water quality and temperature, cleanliness, weather, sand, safety and facilities—residents and visitors alike flock to the surf and sand to enjoy the pristine natural beauty found only on our acclaimed shores. In fact, there’s a good chance there are plenty of sun worshipers there now. You can see them HERE.

While a day at any of our gorgeous beaches offers the perfect blend of fun and relaxation, there are many things to consider to help keep your trip safe and trouble free. From sun safety to recognizing surf conditions and everything in between, here are our top 10 tips for beach safety:

1. Learn to Swim – Everyone should know how to swim, but also remember that swimming in the Gulf is often much different than swimming in a pool. Waves, currents and tides can quickly become overpowering. Do not overestimate your swimming ability. Contact your local American Red Cross, YMCA or recreation department for information on swimming lessons in your area.

2.  Good Conditions – Check surf conditions before you enter the water. Make sure no warnings are posted and no warning flags are up. (Red flag = swimming is prohibited. yellow flag = dangerous conditions, green flag = low hazard, purple flag = dangerous marine life.) Find out the water temperature and tide schedule. Observe the water currents. Rip tides can appear normal. The best advice if you’re caught in a rip tide is to remain calm and swim parallel to the shore. Try not to let the tide carry you out, but definitely do NOT swim against the tide.

3. Swim Near A Lifeguard - Statistics indicate that it is safer to swim on beaches with lifeguard services.  Lifeguards are trained not only in injury prevention, but also in emergency response. Should anything go wrong at the beach, a lifeguard can help make the difference between life and death.  Areas without lifeguard protection may also be areas that have hidden dangers such as sudden drop-offs, currents and weeds all which can endanger your safety. Visit HERE to find area beaches with lifeguards.

3. Hold the Booze - Approximately 50% of catastrophic injuries (including drowning) involve alcohol consumption. Even small amounts of alcohol can impair your judgment, balance, and coordination. Alcohol affects your swimming and diving skills, and reduces your body’s ability to stay warm. Alcohol can make you take risks at the beach that could lead to serious injury or death, so avoid alcohol when swimming at the beach.

4. Supervision Helps – Never leave a child alone or unattended in or near the water. Also, don’t rely on water wings or inflatable toys to protect your child. If you or your child needs a life jacket, be sure it is U.S. Coast Guard approved.

5. Sunscreen – The sun is unforgiving. Make sure to use plenty of sunscreen with at least SPF 15 or higher. If you are fair skinned, think about going a lot higher. Try to limit your time in the sun between 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. There’s nothing worse than burning your first day of vacation, and then suffering the rest of the time. Don’t forget to protect your lips with UV protection.

6. Don’t Call Wolf – If in trouble, signal a lifeguard by shouting “help” and waving your arms. If you or someone in your group gets lost, find the nearest lifeguard. Report unsafe conditions to lifeguards and follow their advice. They are trained in beach and water safety. Respect their experience and judgment and never interfere with their work. Never fake calls for help.

7.  Don’t Create Hazards – Do not throw sand, and fill in holes before you leave the beach. Do not dig deep holes, especially close to the shoreline. Holes can cave in and trap someone. Attempting to dig them out is not always effective and can cause further caving. Call professional rescue help immediately.

8. Hydrate! – Be sure to drink plenty of water, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Avoid alcoholic beverages and caffeine—they dehydrate the body, worsening the effects of heat.

9.  Safe Areas – Swim within designated swimming areas. Stay clear of piers, pilings and rocks. Do not swim during thunderstorms or strong winds. Do not dive into unknown water or into shallow, breaking waves. If bodyboarding or surfing, use swim fins and a leash.

10. Storm Awareness – Florida weather can be beautiful and unpredictable. If you see a storm approaching, hear thunder and or lightning, seek shelter when possible. Click HERE to learn more.