Children need sunscreen applied liberally over all exposed skin. Apply 30 minutes before going outside to get the best protection. Babies under 6 months of age should not be in direct sunlight.
Jellyfish can ruin the day with their stinging tentacles that contain venom. Vinegar is recommended; keep it handy. Teach kids to shuffle their feet at water's edge to awaken buried stingrays.
A rip current is a flow of water that is flowing back out to sea past the point of breaking waves. They often occur around piers and can be too strong to swim against.
Speak to the lifeguard when you first arrive. Ask about jellyfish, rip currents or if storms are moving into the area. If lightning is present, get the kids off the beach and out of the pool.
Keep a close watch on the kids. It's easy to lose track of your kids on a crowded day at the beach.
