Memorial Day Weekend is often considered the unofficial kick-off to summer which makes it a particularly popular time for families to go to the beach. Our water safety experts have also compiled their best tips to ensure your family enjoys a safe trip to the beach.
Wear Your “Beach Bathing Suit.” It is important to know what your child is wearing so he or she is easier to spot on the crowded beach. Designate a specific brightly colored “beach bathing suit” for your child to wear. Take a picture of your child wearing his or her bathing suit and bring it with you to the beach. If your child is ever lost, you’ll be able to show others exactly what your child looks like and what he or she is wearing.
Location, Location, Location. When you first arrive at the beach, locate the nearest life guard tower and set up your family set your family up near it. Check with the life guard about existing conditions such as rip currents, run outs or jelly fish and introduce your child to the life guard.
Always Have Your Cell Phone. Families often think it’s better to leave their cell phone at home or in the car because they don’t want it to get wet. The fact is that your cell phone is an important resource to have in a beach emergency and it should always be with you at the beach. Protect it from the salt and sand by putting it in a plastic bag. Store the phone number for the central life guard station in your phone so you can quickly call for him if your child is missing or needs assistance.
Protect Your Family from the Sun. Sun protection and water safety go hand-in-hand. ISR Certified Instructors recommend at minimum SPF 15 water-proof sunscreen be applied 30 minutes prior to going outside. Sunscreen should be re-applied every 45 minutes for optimal protection. The sun’s rays are usually the strongest between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., but remember – you can get sunburned even on cloudy days.
