A relaxing beach vacation is always a good idea, no matter what time of year you decide to visit! To make your getaway more enjoyable, beach safety on Ocean Isle Beach should be a top priority for everyone in your group. This blog post reminds you of a few simple ways to stay safe while enjoying your wonderful beach vacation.
Use the Buddy System
The buddy system is simple to use and ensures everyone in your group or family stays accounted for. It is especially useful for large groups or families and is easily used by young ones. If needed, you could even make a game out of it for the younger kids.
Follow Safe Swimming Practices
Swimming is a fun activity and a great way to cool down on a hot summer day. However, it’s imperative to follow safe swimming practices. Here are five easy-to-follow tips to ensure your swimming adventures are fun on the beach and in the swimming pool of your Ocean Isle Beach vacation rental!
- Never swim alone. Swimming is the perfect opportunity to utilize the buddy system!
- Never swim while under the influence.
- Know your limits. Don’t swim in a situation you are not comfortable with.
- Never leave children unattended. Also, be sure to provide proper flotation assistance devices and life jackets for children.
- Wear a life jacket. Please don’t be embarrassed; it could save your life!
Read Beach Sign & Observe Flags
Most public beach accesses use a colored flag system to identify potential risk levels on the beach or in the water. Read the posted signs and observe the flag colors.
Learn How to Identify Rip Currents
Rip currents don’t have to be terrifying if you know what to look for, how to avoid them, and most importantly, what to do if you find yourself caught in one. Below is a great video that teaches how to spot a rip current and how to stay calm and get yourself out of a rip current if needed. This is one of the most important pieces of information for beach safety on Ocean Isle Beach.
Respect Marine Life
The ocean is filled with beautiful, exciting creatures that are a joy to observe! However, it’s essential to do just that- observe. Never purposefully get near marine life, and try to avoid touching marine life when possible. Be aware of your surroundings and watch for things that may swim or float near you, such as jellyfish, rays, dolphins, or sharks.
Protect Your Skin and Eyes
You only get the skin you’re in, and wearing sunscreen is the best way to protect it from the sun’s harmful UV rays. Sunscreen doesn’t have to be an annoying chore. Choose one that’s easy to apply, and then return to the beachtime fun within seconds! Experts recommend SPF 30 or higher when enjoying fun in the sun. Protecting your eyes is equally important, and we highly recommend wearing polarized sunglasses and a hat. Long-sleeved swimwear and an umbrella can also go a long way to protect you from the sun.
Stay Hydrated
Be sure to drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol. Staying properly hydrated is one of the easiest ways to stay safe on the beach. Good hydration makes you feel better, helps you stay cooler, and prevents heat exhaustion.
Have An Emergency Plan
Having an emergency plan is an excellent resource for beach safety preparedness. Before your day of beach fun starts, have a quick meeting with those in your group and make sure everyone (especially the kids) understands what to do in case of an emergency. Designate a specific and easy-to-find location to meet in the event anyone gets separated. Talk with your children about identifying “safe” people to ask for help should they get separated from you, such as a lifeguard or other public safety professionals. Before going out to the beach, be sure that everyone in your group knows which beach access you are using or what the street address is for your beach front rental. If someone needs to call 911, you will be able to tell them your location. It is also a good idea for everyone in your group to know where a first-aid kit is located.
Going to the beach should be a fun, memory-filled experience, and we hope you’ll take these tips for beach safety on Ocean Isle Beach with you on your next beach excursion! Feel free to bookmark this page and share it with friends and family who plan to visit the beach this year. Now that you know how to stay safe on the beach, there’s only one thing left to do… book your Ocean Isle Beach vacation!
The professionals at Williamson Realty Vacations are standing by to help make your beach getaway a dream come true. Whether you are looking for a condo or a vacation rental with a pool, they have you covered.
