Staying Safe at the Beach Staying Safe at the Beach
There’s nothing kids love more than running wild on a beach, building sandcastles, hunting in rock pools, and splashing around at the edge of the waves. Beaches are one of the most popular days out in the UK, whatever the weather and even in winter the beach can be great fun if you’re wrapped up warm against the wind. It’s not dangerous to spend the day at the beach, but accidents can happen and it’s often quite a hike back to the car or first aid help.
Feet
One of the most common injuries to children is cuts and bruises on the feet. Objects can be quickly buried under the sand, and it is easy to understand the damage which could be done to a little foot when a child stands on a rusted tin can or smashed glass bottle. It is therefore a good idea to encourage your child to wear something on their feet at all times. Sun-san salt-water sandals are the ideal choice as they can be worn both in and out of the water, and will protect your child’s feet while playing. Sun-san sandals are also smart enough to be worn off the beach too. In the water, the hazards may be less, but wearing sun-san sandals will stop a child stubbing their toes on submerged rocks or stones.
Getting Lost
When a beach is crowded, it’s easy to lose track of your child as they wander off or lose their bearings among the thousands of beach umbrellas and windbreaks. When you first arrive at the beach, try to position yourself by a point of interest, sign, or another landmark which will help a child more easily locate your family if they get lost. If there are lifeguards on duty, point them out to your child and instruct them to go to a lifeguard if they get lost. Make sure your child is wearing a distinctive item of clothing which will help you to pick them out in a crowd if they do happen to wander off or get lost.
Water safety
Never let a child swim in the sea on their own, however strong a swimmer they happen to be. Children always require supervision. Flotation or buoyancy suits may help to keep them afloat in the event of an accident but are no substitute for being able to swim. Do not allow your child to take inflatables such as lilos into the sea as they can be quickly blown offshore, and they should only be allowed out in boats with competent adults who know what they are doing.
Equipment
There is no need to go out and buy a huge range of safety items when planning a trip to the beach, but some essentials are good quality sunscreen, some salt water shoes, a UV t-shirt or an in-one suit for hot weather, and basic first aid kit, which can be left in the car. Wipes are also useful for cleaning up scratches and cuts, and for wiping hands before eating.
Sun-san salt-water sandals are great for protecting your feet in and out of the water! Find your pair at Olive loves Alfie.