With summer and beach season approaching it is important to remember that kids do not always recognize the dangers of a beach when they are having fun. So, here are some beach safety tips for kids.
Sunscreen
The sun is one of the biggest threats to kids at the beach. Whether your child is swimming or just playing in the sand they are going to be spending a lot of the time in the sun and they don’t always recognize the feeling of sun burn until it is way too late. So, apply sunscreen often and use a high SPF level. Kid’s skin is thinner than adults so it burns more easily. It is best to apply the sunscreen at least 15 minutes before heading out into the sun.
Supervision
Always keep an eye on your children. Even if they know how to swim it is easy for a child to be overwhelmed by a single wave. Even when a lifeguard is on duty they can’t watch just your child the whole time.
Lifeguard
While a lifeguard is not responsible for supervising your kids it is best to swim near an occupied lifeguard tower. That way if there is an issue the lifeguard is there to assist quickly.
Parallel Swimming
Kids almost always want to swim out as deep as they can, but this can be very dangerous. Instead have your kids swim parallel to the shore so that if they get a cramp a mouthful of water they can quickly stand up.
Swim Lessons
Before going to the beach it helps kids to be safe to have swimming lessons. Swim lessons include safety instruction and will give confidence around water.
Cautious Diving
If you cannot see the bottom of the water you should not be diving into it. Even if you are familiar with the water and the area there could be uneven depths, hidden rocks or branches that have fallen into the water.
Swim Buddy
Children should never swim alone. They should always be within arms length of an adult. Because their bodies are lighter winds, waves, or currents that do not effect an adult may have a huge effect on children.
Shoes or Sandals
Small sharp stones or shells can easily cut a child’s foot so it is important to wear beach/aqua shoes or sandals at all times. Many beach shoes are water proof and can be worn both on the sand and in the water.
Water
When having fun in the water kids tend not to notice when they get thirst. Be sure your kids do not get dehydrated by taking frequent breaks to cool down and get a drink.
Floating
If your kids use flotation devise be sure they do not float out deeper than you would let them swim. If they fall off the floatation device or if it is blown up and loose air kids need to be able to swim that distance back to shore without issue.
Sources:
Nicole Fancher, Safety Precautions for Beach Lovers of All Ages, Travel Muse
Kim Simonovitch, Beach Safety Tips for Kids, Life123
Keeping Kids Safe at the Beach, Beachouse.com
Denise Mann, Beach Safety 101, WebMD
