A family day at the beach is one of the highlights of summer. From paddling in the sea to building sandcastles and hunting for shells, it's a fantastic way to make memories together.
But beaches can also present hazards that are easy to overlook, especially when you're juggling towels, snacks, toys and excited little ones. The good news is that most accidents and mishaps can be avoided with a little preparation.
Here are 12 common beach safety mistakes parents make – and how to avoid them.
1. Arriving During the Hottest Part of the Day
The sun is usually at its strongest between 11am and 3pm. Babies and young children can overheat much more quickly than adults, so if possible, plan your visit for earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon when it's cooler.
2. Forgetting to Check the Tide Times
It's easy to focus on the weather forecast and forget about the tides. A wide stretch of sand can disappear surprisingly quickly as the tide comes in, leaving families with a much longer walk back than expected.
Checking tide times before you leave helps you choose the safest time to visit and avoid getting caught out.
3. Choosing a Beach Without Lifeguards
Whenever possible, visit a beach with RNLI lifeguards on duty.
If you're planning to swim or paddle, stay between the red and yellow flags where lifeguards are monitoring conditions. If a red flag is flying, the water is considered unsafe and should not be entered.
4. Assuming Calm Water Is Always Safe
Even when the sea looks calm, strong currents and unexpected waves can catch children off guard.
Always stay within arm's reach of babies and younger children around the water's edge and never assume shallow water is risk-free.
5. Relying on Inflatables
Inflatable rings, lilos and toys are great fun, but they should never be used as safety devices. They can drift away from the shore very quickly, particularly if there's an offshore breeze.
Children should always be supervised closely whenever they're near the water.
6. Missing Areas When Applying Sunscreen
It's easy to remember faces and arms but forget the smaller areas that burn just as easily.
Don't forget to protect:
- Ears
- The back of the neck
- The tops of feet
- Hands
- Hairline
Choose a high-factor, water-resistant sunscreen suitable for your child's age and remember to reapply it regularly.
7. Forgetting Shade and Regular Drinks
Children often become so busy playing that they don't realise they're getting too hot.
Take regular breaks in the shade, encourage frequent drinks and keep an eye out for signs of overheating, such as flushed skin, tiredness or unusual irritability.
8. Covering a Pushchair with a Blanket
Many parents think covering a pushchair keeps the sun off their baby, but it can actually trap heat and reduce airflow.
Instead, park the pushchair in the shade or use a suitable sunshade designed for pushchairs while ensuring good ventilation.
9. Letting Little Feet Walk on Hot Sand
Sand can become surprisingly hot on sunny days and may burn delicate feet within seconds.
Test the temperature yourself before letting children walk barefoot, or pack lightweight water shoes if they're likely to be exploring for longer.
10. Overlooking Hidden Hazards
Before your little one starts digging or crawling, take a quick look around the area.
Watch out for:
- Sharp shells
- Broken glass
- Fishing hooks
- Jellyfish
- Slippery rocks
A quick check only takes a moment but can help prevent painful cuts and stings.
11. Staying Too Long
After several hours in the sun, even the happiest child can become tired, hot and overwhelmed.
If your little one starts becoming upset or unusually quiet, it may simply be time to pack up and head home. Ending the day while everyone's still smiling often makes for the happiest memories.
12. Forgetting That the Best Beach Days Are the Simple Ones
Parents often feel they need to pack everything, plan every activity and keep children entertained all day.
The truth is, children usually remember the simple things: collecting shells, splashing in the waves, eating an ice cream and building sandcastles together.
A relaxed day with plenty of breaks is often far more enjoyable than trying to fit everything in.
Enjoy a Safe and Happy Day at the Beach
A little planning goes a long way when you're heading to the coast with babies and young children. By avoiding these common beach safety mistakes, you can spend less time worrying and more time enjoying everything the seaside has to offer.
FAQs
What is the safest time to take children to the beach?
Early morning or late afternoon is usually best, as temperatures are cooler and the sun is less intense than during the middle of the day.
Should children always swim at lifeguarded beaches?
Whenever possible, yes. Choose beaches with RNLI lifeguards and swim or paddle between the red and yellow flags where conditions are monitored.
How can I keep my child cool at the beach?
Encourage regular drinks, take frequent breaks in the shade, dress children in lightweight clothing and watch for signs of overheating, such as flushed skin or unusual tiredness.
