Playing It Safe

With all the beaches around the globe, it is easy for people to don their trunks and bikinis and head off to the nearest one for some fun in the sun. The emerald water beckons individuals to shed off their cover-ups and plunge into the water. The stretch of golden sand invites everyone to take off their shoes and take pleasure in a barefoot leisure walk along the shoreline.

Beaches are one of the favorite hangouts of people no matter how old they are. These idyllic destinations truly present the perfect place for rest and relaxation. However, do not indulge in too much relaxation that you forget to ensure your safety. While you are packing your picnic basket along with your towel and flip-flops, read some of these tips regarding beach safety.

Before going to the beach, check out if the destination has lifeguards especially if you are taking your kids with you. You cannot keep your eyes on children all the time. There’s so much that could happen in a minute. Your oldest can be caught in a rip while you are helping your youngest build a sand castle. Although there are strangers who are more than willing to save the day, it is best if lifesavers are available.

The red and yellow flags you find in the water are not there for aesthetic purposes. They mark the areas that are safest when it comes to swimming. Remember, even the strongest swimmer can drown so go for a dip between the red and yellow flags. Save the water beyond those flags to boats and catamarans.

Tell somebody, whether it is a friend or a lifeguard, that you are going to swim before actually doing so. This way, you can be sure that somebody’s watching your back. It is even better if you swim, surf, or be in the water with someone.

Do not run then dive in. No matter how many times you’ve seen this move in movies or real life, do not join the bandwagon. They may seem like having the time of their lives but what if they stepped on something sharp like a broken glass? What if the waves are too big? Some may say that what ifs can be far from reality but there’s no harm in playing it safe.

There is something about the beach that makes people have a good appetite. It may be that food itself or the ambiance. Whatever it is, we cannot help but pig out under the sun. There’s nothing bad about that. Feel free to satisfy your cravings. The big no-no is swimming right after eating. We tend to get sluggish after a meal and it’s regardless whether we are in land or in water.

People get arrested if they go behind the wheel when they are under the influence of alcohol or drugs. These could lead to accidents and it is the same when you are in the water. Do not even think of swimming after getting high on booze or drugs.

Although tan is all the rage these days, it is advisable to apply at least a 15+ sunscreen. If you are against this product for some reason, protect yourself from sunburn by slipping on a long-sleeved shirt, a broad-brimmed hat, and shades.

For nude beaches like Donkey Beach and College Cove Beach, bear in mind that there can be gawkers around the area. You may want to try spreading your towel on a more secluded part of the beach to avoid any indecent proposals, for lack of a better term.

Another thing common to public beaches aside from water and sand is the safety reminder board. You can read most of the precautions mentioned above in the safety boards of beaches. The important part is that you do not simply read them but follow them. Beaches are safe only if you do your part.