Ensure that lifeguards are on duty before anyone enters the water. If not, search for a different beach or return another day. Even after you dive into the water, stay in sight of a lifeguard. If your children are swimming, don’t let your guard down just because lifeguards are on duty. Always keep an eye on young swimmers.
Know the weather forecast. Even a clear sky can turn stormy in a short period. Rain, hail, high winds and lightning are hazardous elements for swimmers. If you are traveling outside of your local area to enjoy the beach, research the forecast in the beach’s area. Don’t assume that a sunny day forecast in your hometown also means fair weather at the beach.
Watch out for strong waves that may crash against the beach. If the waves seem too severe, don’t allow children to wander into the water unattended. In some cases, the lifeguard can warn you of the current strength of the waves. Rip currents are another danger for swimmers. According to the City of San Diego Lifeguard Services, you can escape a rip current by swimming sideways, rather than against the directional pull.
While commonplace fish pose little threat to humans, you should be aware of the dangers of jellyfish. In most cases, jellyfish stings are not fatal, but the pain of a sting can catch swimmers off guard. In addition, the burning sensation left by a sting can last for several weeks. To treat a jellyfish sting, apply salt water and white vinegar. Fresh water will irritate the sting.
Keep children on the flat, sandy areas of the beach. Surrounding landscape features, such as bluffs and cliffs, may collapse unexpectedly. If you are diving in the water from a high area, ensure that the water is deep and free of sharp rocks. Spend time swimming through the area to familiarize yourself with any hidden dangers.
