Keeping Beach Adventures Fun . . . and Safe

Tips to keep your beach adventure 100% enjoyable.

It's great fun to build sandcastles, collect shells, and splash in the waves! However, since nobody wants to come home with blisters, sunburn, or a scary water experience, practice these tips to keep your beach adventure 100% enjoyable.

• Use sun protection.
  Sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and clothing provide needed protection from blazing rays. Use them even on hazy days. Seek shade under umbrellas and trees, and keep babies out of direct sunlight.

• Drink plenty of water.
  Stay hydrated by drinking good old H₂O. Remember that caffeinated drinks and alcoholic beverages are dehydrating.

• Swim near the lifeguard.
  Make certain that the lifeguard is aware of you and your kids in the water. Avoid swimming in areas where there are no lifeguards present.

• Stay near your kids.
  Kids need to be supervised in the water, so remain within reaching, and not just shouting, distance. Don't rely on floatation devices, and remember that even strong swimmers can be swept by rip currents.

• Dive only in familiar waters.
  A headlong plunge requires that you know where you are headed. If you or your kids dive, make sure you are certain of the depth of the water, and teach your kids to dive only in places designated safe for diving.

For more information about beach safety and other types of water safety, go to www.redcross.org.

If you'd like to find information about swimming classes near you, go to www.redcross.org/services.