Safety Tips for the Beach + Sun Safety in Florida

[Belfast-jj]

The beach is fun and exciting, but can also be dangerous. Unpredictable tides, rip currents, and jellyfish are all things to look out for while swimming. Keeping these water safety tips in mind will help too!


Stay Within The Designated Swimming Area – Many beaches have areas roped off specifically for swimming. Stay within these areas, as they are sectioned off for a reason. The lifeguards are watching what is going on in the swimming area, and if you venture out, you could be on your own and in danger.


Never Swim Alone – This is especially important for youngsters. Always stay within shouting distance of a friend or family member while in the water. If something happens, it is important that other people are aware so that they can help.


Be Aware of Rip Currents – If you feel yourself caught in a current, do not fight it. You cannot outswim a strong current, and you will only become fatigued, putting yourself in more danger. The best thing to do is swim parallel to the shore until you feel the current weaken, then you can swim back to land.


Know the Flag Warning System – Beaches use this system to alert swimmers to problems in the water. Be aware of what each of the flags means so you know how to react.

Red Flag – Stay OUT of the water

Yellow Flag – Use CAUTION if swimming

Green Flag – Calm Water

No Flag – No Beach Safety Patrol or Lifeguard on duty




jj...... :thumb:

[Belfast-jj]

Following these sun safety tips will help you have the most enjoyable trip possible. Failure to abide by these rules could result in any number of painful and dangerous conditions whose symptoms are listed below.

Sunburn – Redness, swelling, pain and blistering are all symptoms of a sunburn. Severe burns can also result in headaches and fever. A wide variety of lotions and ointments are available to treat sunburns, but those with more severe cases should seek medical attention.

Cramping – Too much heat exposure could lead to cramps in the legs and abdomen. Ingesting a mild saltwater solution (1 teaspoon salt to 8 oz. water) should help, as will a gentle massage of the affected area.

Heat Exhaustion – Pale, clammy skin coupled with profuse sweating and weak pulse may be signs of heat exhaustion. More severe cases may be marked by vomiting and fainting. Move the victim to a cool area, preferably with air conditioning, and apply a cold compress. If symptoms persist, seek a doctor.

Sunstroke – Sunstroke is marked by a very high fever, dry skin and a racing pulse. Move the victim to a cool location, apply cold compresses and seek medical attention immediately. Sunstroke can be fatal if left untreated.

Drink Plenty of Fluids – The intense Florida sun drains fluids from your body at a rapid rate. Drinking water and other non-carbonated fluids, even if you aren't thirsty, will help you stay hydrated and avoid falling victim to the sun's heat.

Sunblock – A sunburn, especially one caused by the beating Florida heat, can make the rest of a trip miserable. A severe sunburn can even require the treatment of a doctor. To avoid this problem, wear sunblock whenever you are outside. Try to use an SPF level of at least 30 to block as many harmful rays as possible. Every time you come out of the water, you should reapply your sunblock, even if it is waterproof. This will help provide the optimum level of protection.

Out of The Sun During Peak Hours – The sun is strongest between the hours of 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Try to find something indoors to do during this time so you can avoid the dangers of the sun when it is at its hottest.

Take Overcast Days Lightly – Just because you can't see the sun doesn't mean it's not there. The powerful rays can easily pass through a fog or haze, so be sure to protect yourself even when it's cloudy.



jj...... :thumb:

[Bob_and_Dawn]

Very useful information JJ. :) Its surprising how many people forget these precautions. :rolleyes:

Dawn

[Petalsoftly]

I can never remember what the flags mean... only the red one... red for danger. I MUST get myself educated... :(