Jumping in the waves and swimming in the ocean are so much fun! Here are some tips to help keep your aqua-play safe.
Rip Tides
You may have heard of this potentially life-threatening issue if you’ve been to the ocean before. A rip tide is a current that pulls you away from the shore. It’s much too strong to swim against, and it can be both scary and deadly if you don’t know what to do. Unfortunately, it’s hard to pinpoint where such a current may be, so there is always a risk.
If you ever find yourself in a rip tide, the best thing you can do is swim parallel to the shore. Usually, the current is relatively narrow, so rather than swimming against, try to swim away from it. Once you’re free from the tide, then you can swim back to shore.
Be sure to inform your children if they are going to go into the water as well.
Swimming Safely
Usually, people don’t swim in the ocean, but rather they play in the waves. This is a great way to experience the fun of the water without a lot of risk, but there can still be a threat if you’re not careful. Here are some things to remember to keep you and your family safe.
- Never turn your back to the ocean. It takes only a second to get swept off your feet. This is true whenever you’re by the water.
- Watch for larger waves. Don’t let your kids go out when the waves are bigger than them.
- Pay attention to the terrain. There may be rocks or other hazards beneath the water, so don’t assume that it’s safe.
- Have toddlers and little kids wear life vests or flotation devices if they are going in. This will ensure that they don’t get pulled under.
- Always stay close by, just in case something does happen.
- Don’t rely solely on the lifeguard. Many beaches don’t have a lifeguard. However, even if one is on duty, don’t expect him or her to notice your child immediately.
