Does your family travel to the beach during the summer? You know, ice cream and the boardwalk and seagulls stealing your sandwich? Going down the shore with friends and family is always a blast, but safety should always be your first thought. Here are some safety tips to always keep in mind while relaxing in the sun.

1. Save your skin! The sun is a very powerful tool! Just one sunburn doubles your chance of getting Melanoma, or skin cancer, later in life. Always be cautious around 10am-4pm, the sun’s peak hours. Make sure that you have all the shade tools; hats, umbrellas, tents. And definitely don’t forget that your eyes can get sunburned as well! Sunglasses play a big part in staying safe in the sun (Morin).

2. Shark!! Shark attacks aren’t that common in the U.S. But you can never be too careful. Never swim with an open wound. Sharks can smell a single drop of blood from a mile away. Also make sure not to wear shiny jewelry. Light reflected off jewels look like fish scales for the sharks to hunt. If you do get attacked by a shark, the general rule is: “Do whatever it takes to get away!” (Florida Museum).

3. Jellyfish are also an underwater animal to look out for. Certain jellyfish stings are poisonous and can cause severe injuries. Watch out for signs around beaches that show jellyfish washed up on shore. This symbolizes that jellyfish have been in the area. There are also some lotions that are also a good protection from the creatures (Morin).

4. Hydration! The beating sun and humid seaside aren’t too good for you. Extended exposure to heat can contribute to skin cancer. Don’t drink any coffee, soda or energy drinks. These high caffeinated drinks will only make you more thirsty. Drink plenty of water. Fruits and vegetables also have a thirst quenching taste and will satisfy your dry throat (Sherman). There are also many fruit ice pop recipes to enjoy your hot day.

5. After baking in the sun for hours, the sun can cause severe problems and can lead to illnesses. Symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke include dizziness, confusion, fatigue, headache, weakness, rapid heartbeat, and nausea. Sun poisoning can be indicated by skin redness, blistering, or fever and chills (Morin). Always make sure to wear sunscreen and a hat while out in the hot weather, and drink plenty of water!

Now that you know some precautions to take while you’re at the beach, go have fun with your family and friends. Make sure that everyone you care about is careful by the shore. And don’t forget to grab your water, sunscreen, take off your jewelry, and get to the beach!

References:

“How to Avoid Shark Attacks.” Isurus Oxyrinchus :: Florida Museum of Natural History, www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu/fish/discover/sharks/avoid-attacks/.

Morin, Kate. “Stay Safe At the Beach – 13 Tips for Preventing Injury and Illness.”Greatist, Greatist, 6 June 2016, greatist.com/health/beach-safety-tips.

Sherman, Chelsea. “How to Stay Hydrated at the Beach.” Ultima Replenisher. www.ultimareplenisher.com/stay-hydrated-at-the-beach/.