8 Easy Summer Safety Tips For The Beach

Summer is here and in Southern California that means one thing: more time at the beach! Who doesn’t love a day well spent down by the sea? But it can be dangerous if you aren’t careful. Over at safer-america.com, we already got to packing up the car, ready to split for the beach but we thought we’d ask the Orange County personal injury attorneys; Panish Shea & Boyle first if they had a few quick tips on how to stay safe on the sand this summer.

Check The Weather

· Make sure you check the weather report before heading to the beach. Waiting 72 hours before getting into the water after a heavy rainstorm is strongly advised.

Choose A Swimming Spot Close To A Lifeguard

· Have a good look for where they’re stationed on the beach and stay near them when swimming — majority of drowning’s occur at unguarded sites.

Be Aware Of The Waves & Watch For Rip Currents

· Waves are way more powerful than you think so don’t try to swim against the current! Raise your arms and signal for the help of a passer by or lifeguard that can tend to your rescue.

Stay Sober

· Alcohol doesn’t only affect judgment; it also dehydrates you. If you’re going to consume a booze filled beverage steer clear of the surf.

Save Your Skin

· Keep the red at bay by slathering on a broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher. Make sure you have a source of shade, especially during the sun’s peak hours of 10am to 4pm. Don’t forget - eyes can get sunburned, too, so don’t forget a pair of shades.

Be Aware Of Ocean Life

· Most ocean life by the shore shouldn’t cause too much worry (shark attacks are luckily not as common in the US) but it’s always good to be aware of what’s out there. Barnacles and the shells of mussels and clams can be very sharp, so watch carefully when walking on rocks and move slowly while walking out into the water.

Jellyfish and stingrays are also creatures to look out for. Jellyfish injurys can most often be treated at home after careful instruction, where as stingray wounds need immediate medical attention generally to manage pain.

Keep Hydrated

· Extended exposure to heat and the relaxing effects of waves can often lead to disorientation and a lethargic energy. Be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks down to the sand with you.

And last but not least…

Buddy Up

· Use the Buddy System and never allow anyone to go out and swim alone. Even if it’s a lifeguarded beach, use the buddy system, be safe and stick together.

So go on, get out there and have a stellar time at the sea!