MOSSEL BAY NEWS - The beach is a staple for the holiday season, but practising safety is just as important.

Holiday goers leaving their holiday homes for fun in the sea and sand, make sure you practise these safety tips:

Drive carefully

Loading your car with your swimming towels, umbrellas and cooler boxes is just one part of the beach fun.
Getting there safely and in one piece is the other. Remember to adhere to the speed limit, be mindful of other drivers on the road and pay attention to your surroundings. Do not drink and drive. The summer season is typically a time for relaxation, but don't become too relaxed and ignore responsibilities.

Swim with a buddy

Swim with someone, instead of alone, especially if you're not the strongest swimmer. Make sure to
swim within view of the lifeguards and your friends and family. Swim between the flags set up by the
lifeguards on the beach. The ocean can be temperamental; if you find yourself struggling against the waves, don't panic. Let the waves push you back to shore. Don't swim if you've been drinking. Don't go into the ocean if you have a bleeding wound. Don't swim too far out; stay where your feet can still touch the ocean floor.

Keep belongings close by
Your phone, wallet and car keys are obvious essentials when going anywhere. It can be tricky to keep them close when at the beach, especially if you've travelled alone or if everyone is swimming and unable to
keep an eye on your personal belongings. Some suggest leaving these valuables at home, others recommend taking a waterproof or zip-lock bag with your belongings inside, with you into the water. You can also place your personal belongings in a container and bury it in the sand, with a towel placed over it to strengthen your hiding spot.

Watch your children

There's no such thing as being too careful when it comes to the safety of children. It's best to keep a watchful eye while they're playing in the sand or in the water. Adhere to the advice of the lifeguards on duty. If they're
toddlers or not yet teens, ensure an adult accompanies them inmthe ocean. If your child is not a strong swimmer, do not allow them into the ocean alone. If they're with you on the sand, keep a close eye. Children can easily wander off without anyone realising. Contact local authorities immediately if something happens.

Stranger danger

The beach is a fun, free, family activity, often with many people enjoying the day. Unfortunately, this can
also be a case of strangers with bad intentions lurking and observing.
Teach your family, especially children, about stranger danger. Tell them not to go with or talk to anyone they don't know. Of course, new friends can be made at the beach, but teach them to be aware of suspicious behaviour and not to trust a stranger too quickly.

Apply sunscreen

If your skin burns easily under the hot summer sun, lather your body in sunscreen regularly. Whether you’re
taking a dip in the water or just lounging on the sand, protect yourself with routine applications of sunscreen. Remember to apply every one to two hours, especially after exiting the water, towel-drying, or laying in the sun. Avoid the sun between 11:00 and 15:00, drink lots of water, avoid direct sunlight, wear a hat and use sunglasses. 

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