Beach Safety

Going to the beach is always connected with a funny, adventurous, sunny time, but this does not have to be like this every day of the year. A beach can also be hazardous at times so that knowledge of how to stay safe next time you visit a beach is essential. Here are a few tips that help you to stay as safe as you can.

Warning flags

You should always watch for warning flags and it is needless to say that you have to know what they mean! Around the globe you will find different beaches with different colored flags and the connected meanings. If you are not 100% sure what a flag signifies always ask the lifeguard! In general, red flags indicate strong surf and currents. Sometimes it means that the beach is closed. Yellow flags indicate that the water is likely to be rough but not exceedingly dangerous. Though this is nothing for inexperienced swimmer and children. Green flags signify that the ocean is calm. Furthermore, you may see a blue or purple flag which means that there might be dangerous marine life like sharks or jellyfish.

(source: http://www.coastalchange.org)

Weather

Remember your classes in physics? Water is a conductor and this is why lightning and water are very dangerous. You should avoid a beach if there is lightning or wait at least 30 minutes after the last thunder boom. It may be a great pity that you are not able to go into the water, but the beach will still be there a day later and so will you! Never go swimming when there is some kind of storm, this might be very dangerous.

(source: http://www.onthewater.com)

Swimming

Before you try to swim a long time you should remember that swimming in an ocean is not like swimming in a pool or lake. You will find strong surf and should be prepared for this. If you are not sure you are good enough, put on a lifejacket. This is also necessary when you bring your children along. Another advice is to obey the buddy system. This means that you should go with a friend nearby into the water so that you can help each other if necessary.

A lifeguard may also help you so see where he is and swim over there. He will know much more about the risks of a beach than the beach-goers and provides a beach safety.

(source: https://lifeguards.com)

Rip currents

A rip current is basically a strong channel of water extending from the shore out into the water. They emerge when waves do not break evenly along the shore but break more strongly in some areas than others. This can cause a circulation in the water and as a result a rip current develops. They can pull even the strongest swimmers out to the sea so that no one should ever go into the water if there is a warning that helps the beach safety.

(source: http://indosurflife.com)

Beach-goers should always think about those things as well as sunscreen and stay sober. Furthermore, you should be aware of sun sickness and find yourself some shadow. With all those tips and a lot of water to drink you will enjoy a great day and stay safe at the beach.

Best regards,

Your worldbeachclubs-Team.