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Flags, conditions, more: What to know before heading to the beach
ORLANDO, Fla. – Going to the beach can be one of most popular, fun ways to spend a day with friends and family.
However, this fun activity can quickly take a turn for the worse if the risks of the beach are not handled with caution. There are several potentially dangerous elements of the beach that should be taken into consideration, especially by those who are unfamiliar with the ocean or have children.
Here is a list of things to keep in mind before you go to the beach. While the ocean may seem somewhat scary after considering the risks, it can still be a great time as long as you are careful. Just remember these tips to ensure you have a safe, fun day at the beach.
Rip currents are powerful, channeled currents of water that flow away from the shore. They are known for unexpectedly pulling swimmers out to sea and account for more than 80% of rescues by beach lifeguards, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
Rip currents typically extend from the shoreline, through the surf zone and past the line of breaking waves. It is important to know what to look for and recognize the dangers of these currents. The most reliable way to know if the conditions are ideal for a rip current is by looking out for the posted beach warning flags at beach entrances or near lifeguard towers.
[RELATED: What different beach flags mean]
The best way to stay safe is to know how to spot them and avoid going in the water if one is present. Here’s how to spot, escape from and help others trapped in rip currents:
How to spot a rip current:
It is easier to spot a rip current if you are up high.
However, if you miss these signs and do get caught in a rip tide, do not panic, there is a method of escaping the current.
How to escape a rip current:
It is important to note that rip currents do not drag you under water, they pull you away from the beach.
If you find yourself caught in a rip current, the most important thing to do is not panic as this can quickly lead to exhaustion. Getting out of a rip current is simple if you are thinking clearly.
If you see someone in a rip current:
Don’t become a victim yourself. Many have died trying to help.
Weather conditions are also important to keep in mind when planning to spend a day on the coastline. Despite the weather having a direct impact on the formation of rip currents, there are several other dangers that comes from being at the beach during bad weather conditions.
Lightning
There is no safe place outside when thunderstorms are in the area, and this includes the beach! Lightning is known for being drawn to water and, if it strikes, can injure those in the ocean and on the damp sand.
NOAA reports that an average of 33 people are killed each year by lightning in the U.S. The organization states that it is important to wait at least 30 minutes after the last crack of thunder before returning to the beach.
Rough waters
There does not have to be a rip current in the water for it to be dangerous to swim. If it is significantly stormy or windy, the ocean often has harsh waters and aggressive waves that can harm swimmers, especially those not used to swimming in rough waterways.
Large, relentless waves can knock you over and pin you to the sand, causing injuries or entrapment. NOAA states that spinal cord injuries can often happen when diving headfirst into the water or being tumbled by the force of the waves.
It is also important to note that even if the weather seems nice out, conditions can be sometimes misleading. It is essential to pay attention to the nature of the water and impact of the waves.
The Florida heat is no joke, and it is important to take the risks of high temperatures seriously.
Dehydration
Dehydration can lead to heat-related illness, dizziness and fainting. Your body is more prone to heat exhaustion or heatstroke when severely dehydrated, as it has to work harder to keep your body at a stable temperature.
To stay hydrated, make sure you are drinking enough water during your time outside. It is best to skip drinks like coffee, alcohol and soda, as these beverages often make dehydration worse. Drinking water and sports drinks with electrolytes are the best practice to ensure you stay healthy and enjoy your time outside.
The CDC also recommends taking breaks in the share or air conditioning periodically to pace yourself and give your body breaks from having to endure the heat. Wearing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing is another good precaution, along with eating lighter meals.
Sun protection
It is vital to wear sun protection, especially during the peak heat hours of 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunscreen helps prevent skin damage, aging and cancer caused by prolonged UV exposure. The most effective sunscreen is one that is broad-spectrum, and has an SPF of at least 30, according to UW Medicine. It is also important to reapply every two hours.
Bringing an open-air tent or umbrella on your beach trip is another great practice to help provide your body with breaks from the sun and reduce UV exposure. Wearing hats and polarized sunglasses is another good option to help protect the skin on your face.
It is important to watch where you step when you are at the beach, as holes, soft sand pockets and rocks can be tripping hazards. Not to mention the shells and other sharp objects that can cut your feet. Just be cautious of where you are stepping when taking a stroll on the shoreline.
The same goes for when you are wading in the water. There are often sudden deep pockets where the sand bar drops off or holes that you cannot see because of the sand stirred up by the waves. Just be sure to walk slowly and carefully to avoid being taken by surprise by an abrupt drop-off or submerged object.
Remember that humans are not the only ones that enjoy the ocean! Many sea creatures call this vast habitat home, and we are often treading in their waters. Most of the time, these animals have no intentions of hurting humans, but it is always best to avoid them if present.
The most common creature you may cross paths with is a type of stingray or jellyfish, as they often swim in shallow water. If you see either of these sea animals, it is best to avoid the area entirely to avoid any possible interactions.
Remember the “shuffle step” technique in waters where you cannot see the bottom. Sliding your feet along the sand will scare off any nearby creatures and help you avoid stepping on them, which may cause an adverse reaction.
If you are swimming in deeper regions of the water, always keep a look out for sharks. While shark attacks may be rare, they are serious. NOAA recommends not swimming too far from shore, staying in groups and avoid being in the water near dark.
If you do decide to swim in deeper water, stay alert for groups of frightened fish, dark patches of water and, of course, fins.