Keep Your Time at the Beach Fun and Safe

Knowing how to spot potential dangers at the beach can keep you and your loved ones safe. Read and share these tips below!

Beach Safety:

A day by the ocean should be fun– it’s one of the perks of getting to live in California. But California is also known for large swells in the wintertime that can be hazardous and, sadly, frequently fatal for visitors who do not understand just how dangerous the ocean can be. Here are some ways to make sure your day at the beach is not only an enjoyable experience but also a safe one.

Pay attention to the weather! Keep an eye out for beach hazard statements like a “High Surf Warning” which provides information on hazardous conditions. You can follow National Weather Service for more information. Stay off rocks and coastal jetties as “sneaker waves,” which are sudden surges of water, can happen without warning. If you see someone being dragged in, stay back and call 911. Leave the water immediately if the weather changes or if it begins to thunder and lightning. On hot days, be sure to pack water. Wear plenty of sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher).

Keep an eye on the people you came with: Have a buddy system in place. Keep a close eye on children and ensure that animals remain on leashes. Beware of rip currents! 

Rip currents are strong, narrow currents that move directly away from the shore and can make it difficult for even experienced swimmers to get back to land. You can protect yourself by staying at least 100 feet away from structures like piers that can create permanent rip currents. Paying attention to beach flags and postings that indicate surf conditions. Double Red flags indicate water is closed to the public. Red flag stands for high hazard, there are rough conditions and currents. Yellow flag stands for medium hazard, this means that there is moderately strong surf and currents. Green flag stands for low hazard, swimmers should still exercise caution but water conditions are calm. Purple flag indicates that there is marine life that may cause minor injuries.

If caught in a rip current, stay calm and attempt to swim parallel to the shore until you are out of the current. You can also float and signal to a life guard that you are in danger.

Remember we are in a pandemic! Know the rules of the beach you are going to, some may limit the amount of people allowed to gather. To avoid spreading COVID-19, stay six feet away from individuals outside of your immediate household. To learn more ways to protect yourself at the beach go to Redcross.org.