The key to a successful beach day with children is preparation, vigilance, and teaching your kids about the potential dangers and how to handle them. You can enjoy your time at the beach, knowing that you've taken the steps to keep your family safe. Here are our Top Tips to a great beach day:
1. Preparing for Your Beach Day
Research the Beach
Before you head out, research the beach you'll be visiting. Check for any advisories, such as water quality reports or weather warnings. Learn about the beach's features, such as lifeguard availability, tides, and surf conditions.
Pack Essentials
Ensure you have the necessary items for a safe beach day:
- Sunscreen: Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30. Apply it generously and reapply every two hours or after swimming.
- Sun Protection Gear: Hats, sunglasses, and UV-protective clothing can shield your family from harmful rays.
- First Aid Kit: Include plasters, antiseptic wipes, and any medications your family might need.
- Hydration: Bring plenty of water to keep everyone hydrated, especially in the heat.
- Snacks: Pack healthy snacks to keep energy levels up without causing a sugar rush.
Set Boundaries and Rules
Before you arrive, discuss beach rules with your children. Explain the importance of staying within sight, not going into the water alone, and what to do if they get lost.
2. At the Beach
Choose a Safe Spot
Select a location close to a lifeguard station. Lifeguards are trained to handle emergencies and can quickly assist if needed.
Supervise Constantly
Always keep an eye on your children, even if they are just playing in the sand. Water conditions can change rapidly, and it only takes a moment for a child to get into trouble.
Understand Sea Conditions
Teach your children about rip currents and how to identify them. If caught in a rip current, they should remain calm, float, and swim parallel to the shore until they are out of the current. Only then should they swim back to shore.
Swimming Safety
- Stay Close: Young children or weak swimmers should always stay within arm's reach.
- Floatation Devices: Use Coast Guard-approved life vests. Avoid inflatable toys as they can give a false sense of security.
- Swimming Lessons: Enroll your children in swimming lessons to improve their water skills and confidence.
3. Sun Safety
Apply Sunscreen Properly
Apply sunscreen 15-30 minutes before sun exposure. Don’t forget easily missed spots like the ears, back of the neck, and tops of the feet.
Seek Shade
Take breaks from the sun by using umbrellas, tents, or finding natural shade. This helps prevent sunburn and heat exhaustion.
Wear Protective Clothing
Encourage your kids to wear rash vests or swim shirts and wide-brimmed hats to provide extra protection against the sun. Slumbersac has a range of cute beach towel ponchos with a hood to help protect children on the beach
4. Dealing with Emergencies
Know Basic First Aid
Familiarise yourself with basic first aid, including CPR. Many organisations, such as the Red Cross, offer courses that can prepare you for emergencies.
Identify Lifeguards and Emergency Services
As soon as you arrive, locate the nearest lifeguard station and make sure your children know where it is. If a lifeguard is not available, know the emergency contact numbers for the area.
Teach Kids What to Do If Lost
Instruct your children to approach a lifeguard or another family with children if they get lost. Point out distinctive landmarks near your spot so they can find their way back.
5. Environmental Awareness
Watch for Wildlife
Educate your children about local marine life and the importance of not disturbing animals. Teach them what to do if they encounter jellyfish, stingrays, or other potentially harmful creatures.
Keep the Beach Clean
Model good behaviour by cleaning up your area and teaching your kids to respect the environment. Bring a rubbish bag to collect litter and dispose of it properly.
Respect Flag Warnings
Beaches often use flag systems to indicate water conditions. Teach your children what the different flags mean and to respect them.
A day at the beach can be a wonderful experience for families, creating lasting memories. By following these safety tips, you can ensure that your beach outings are not only fun but also safe.
