Most people love the beach and enjoy sunbathing and swimming. Both can be hugely enjoyable provided that some sensible precautions are taken. Here are some safety issues to consider when visiting the beach:
* Do not swim where there is a red flag flying. This means danger and there may be strong undercurrents that can overcome even the strongest swimmer. Never underestimate the power of the sea.
* Never let children out on inflatable boats that are not tethered by rope to the shore as the wind or currents can quickly whisk them away. Alternatively, ensure that they are accompanied by a string adult swimmer.
* If you are swimming in a bay or cove make sure you have read the tide table so you know when high tide will be. Every year many people have to be rescued, cut off by the tide as they failed to realize the speed at which it can come in.
* If you enjoy diving make sure the water you intend to dive into is deep enough. Obvious though this may sound, there are numerous accidents every year where people dive into shallow water or water with hidden rocks and suffer serious injury or even death.
* Always use a high factor sun cream or sun protection clothing and wear sunglasses as the sun can cause damage to eyes even when they eyes are closed. Even in the UK the sun can be strong at midday and early afternoon. Skin cancer can be triggered by excessive unprotected sunbathing and can take many years to develop. If you sunbathe without suitable protection when you are young, you may be storing up problems for the future. Those with fair skin or freckles should avoid the sun completely in the middle of the day. It is advisable to use Factor 20 sun cream or greater to be safe.
* Never, ever use olive oil instead of sun cream as your skin will simply cook. It is best not to sunbathe for more than half an hour at a time. If you really do want a tan, you could try a fake spray tan which is completely safe.
* Make sure you have plenty to drink on the beach. It is easy to become dehydrated. Plain tap water is fine - take some along in a bottle. Other non-alcoholic drinks will also be effective - tea, bottled mineral water, lemonade or fruit squash will all help to alleviate a dry mouth.
* Many beaches can be very stony. Take beach shoes that are suitable for the beach and in the sea - plastic shoes are ideal.
* Be aware that there may be glass on the beach. However hard the local council may try to keep the beaches clean, there is always a chance of dangerous items being washed up on to the shore.
* Don't worry too much about creatures biting you in the water. You might spot the occasional jellyfish or large crab and it is sensible to give them a wide berth but they won't generally be too interested in you!
