Stay safe this summer
School is out and the beach is in for many of the island’s children. Whilst some kids are enjoying summer camp or a trip overseas, there are numerous children who are frequenting local beaches, looking to live up the lively summer period.
However, we have all grown up hearing that “the sea ain’t got no back door” and as such, there is a need to remind parents to remind their children to exercise greater care and caution, when going for a sea bath.
Whilst summer safety does not extend to sea bathing alone, the focus is being placed here, based on the allure of the beach, for many young children and even teenagers.
So here are some “Beach Safety Tips” young sea bathers should take note of this summer, in an effort to truly enjoy the beach experience.
1) Swim only at a lifeguard-protected beach and within the designated swimming area. Beaches are not always patrolled every day of the year, so check if it’s OK to swim and read and obey all water safety signs.
2) Keep abreast of present weather conditions. If you are aware of what the weather holds, it is unlikely you will be caught by surprise, while at the beach. It goes without saying that you should not go swimming if bad weather looms.
3) Never swim alone. By following this simple rule, you can ensure that you are better prepared to handle any unforeseen circumstances that arise. If you for instance catch a cramp, or you suddenly feel unwell, you may be able to signal your friend or swimming buddies, rather than having to call for help from someone in the distance. Have a system of communication set up, to ensure everybody is accounted for at varying intervals.
4) You should also ensure that you swim where the water is manageable (even if it means “sand bathing”). A little sand in the pants will not harm you, but ingesting large volumes of water will certainly be to your detriment. So ignore pressure from friends to “swim out” and even if you are a good swimmer, ensure that you have enough energy left to always make it back to shore.
5) Let young children or inexperienced swimmers wear life jackets and other inflatable devices for the body, while in the water and let them stay close to the shore. Other floatation devices may present a hazard for those who are inexperienced and may cause them to drift too far.
6) Recognise the signs of a rip current and be prepared to take action. A rip is a strong water current running out to sea from a beach. Rips can easily sweep swimmers out to sea from shallow water, sometimes several hundred metres offshore. Common signs of a rip are: murky brown water caused by sand and seaweed; being stirred up off the sea bed; foam on the surface extending beyond the break; waves breaking on both sides of the rip, but not inside the rip (the rip may seem calm and inviting); water that appears dark, indicating deeper water; debris floating out to sea.
You can survive rip currents by knowing your options: For assistance stay calm, float and attract attention. To escape a rip, swim parallel to the beach. Always conserve your energy, waves can assist you back to the beach.
7) Know when to call it quits and do not go back for one final dip, if you are tired. That final one may be prove to be your last. Do your best to stay safe at the beach and do share these tips with a friend.