When hitting the beach, it always pays to keep safety in mind.
Here are a few simple tips to make sure your day at the beach is as safe and enjoyable as possible:
1. Beware of Shiny Objects:
When you go to the beach, make sure not to wear your fanciest jewelry! Hey ocean lovers, did you know that your bling can attract some unwanted attention from sea creatures? It’s like using a fishing lure in the water! The shiny metal reflects light and can be mistaken for fish scales, causing curious sea creatures to swim closer and investigate.
So don’t wear anything too sparkly, you may end up attracting some unwanted attention. Leave your jewels at home – and save yourself from a heart-pumping experience!
2. Hold onto your sandals, folks!
Sandspurs are nature’s way of hitchhiking their way around, but with small, spiky burrs that cling onto anything that passes by. Sandspurs love dry, sandy soils, a.k.a. the beach! Stepping on this pesky weed hurts! And it can cause some seriously cringe-worthy moments as you try to remove their prickly foes from your skin, clothes, and even pet fur. Ouch!
If you should encounter such an unfortunate incident on your beach day, pull the body of a sandspur out of your foot with tweezers if you must. If a splinter remains, soak your foot in warm water and try to ease it out. So try to watch wear you step, or you might end up with some painful souvenirs!
3. Jellyfish stings can be a real pain – literally!
But don’t worry, there are plenty of ways to treat these pesky stings. If you have been stung, try any of the following treatments: rinsing the affected area with seawater (not freshwater), applying vinegar or meat tenderizer, or taking an antihistamine. Most importantly, seek medical help if needed!
Remember: when it comes to jellyfish stings, prevention is key. Slather on sunscreen and wear a wetsuit if you can to avoid them altogether. Sunscreen’s slippery texture makes it hard for tentacles to latch on, and the cream even absorbs skin secretions that would signal to those jellies that they’ve found prey. Plus, the cream has chemical blockers that stop the stinging process.
4. Rip currents are no joke for beach lovers.
Even the strongest swimmers can get swept out to sea. These sneaky currents move sideways along the shore and can be super powerful. Listen to the lifeguards if they post warnings. If you are caught in a rip current, avoid the urge to swim straight for shore. Follow the shoreline and break free from the current’s grasp. Then, swim diagonally toward the shore.
Following these simple tips can help ensure a safe and enjoyable beach day for everyone. Now grab your towel and get ready for some fun in the sun!
