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7 Beach Safety Tips for Parents at the Beach This Summer



During this summer, you will probably tag your family along to the seaside to enjoy some well-deserved downtime in the sun. However, as a parent, it doesn’t mean that you let your guard down. Even when playing pebble beach tips must be kept in mind. The kids will be exposed to more dangers than they would while cooped up in the house.

With our experience in swimming as lifeguards and coaches, we have condensed our knowledge into these beach tips post to help you and your kids stay safe out there. We will also outline crucial tips for taking your baby to the beach.

Image of children playing in the surf: This post is about Beach Safety Tips
Summer with Family

Beach Tips to Keep Your Kids Safe This Summer

  1. Hydrate and Snack up Often
  2. It is easy to get dehydrated and low on sugar levels while swimming or playing at the beach. The young ones get caught up in the excitement and will most likely forget to ask for water or snacks. Make sure to remind them often to drink. Bring plenty of water and electrolyte-rich beverages: sports drinks, fresh fruit juice, coconut water, and smoothies. Have the kids eat something to keep their energy up every two hours or so.

    Swimming is an intensive activity, and you don't want them to get weak while in the water. Some protein bars, trail mix, sandwiches, and fruits are all great options.

  3. Look out for Rip Currents
  4. According to the United States Lifesaving Association, rip currents make up more than 80% of all lifeguard rescues. They are caused by a break in the sandbar, causing water to flow out into the sea. Fortunately, they don’t pull you under but out to the waves. Kids may not know what to do when caught in one, so look out! If you see the water carrying debris out to sea, or that is darker and more turbulent, get the kids out pronto. This is one of the most important tips for taking the baby to the beach.

  5. Footwear Is a Must
  6. The fine sand may feel very inviting to your feet, but there are lots of dangerous things hiding underneath and in the waves. Sharp rocks, sea urchins, and shells can give you or the kids a nasty wound that takes ages to heal. Make sure everyone has their shoes on. Invest in crocs, flip flops, or better still, buy proper water shoes. Don't let the kids take them off even in the water.

  7. Keep Life Jackets on
  8. Drowning can take place in an instant, even in shallow water. Always make sure your kids have their life jackets on. The jackets should be Coast-Guard certified.

    They should fit perfectly

    Don’t use floats instead of life jackets. These can easily drift away when the wind blows. Always attach the leashes.


    Image of children running in a shallow pool one child in life preserver
    Child in a life preserver

    When the kids are ready to get out of the water, you should be waiting for them with a soft, warm beach towel. Spending a considerable amount of time in water causes temperature jump. The body routes blood circulation to the core away from the skin. It is the reason why you look pale in the water, and also why you shake and feel cold afterwards.

    The same thing can happen in babies after a bath. You need a soft, absorbent, baby-friendly towel to keep your angel warm and fuzzy. You would also want to try the best baby washcloths not to irritate the soft young skin. Get one of these deluxe quality beach items for your little ones to keep them snug and warm when they get out of the water.

  9. Pay Attention
  10. It is tempting to do some light reading or catch up on social media when at the beach. After all, the lifeguard is watching, isn’t he? However, you should not rely entirely on a lifeguard to keep your kids safe. He may not spot a problem until it is too late. So, keep off your phone when minding the kids and stay sober. Rule number one of the tips for playing pebble beach with our children is to pay attention and be aware of what’s going on.

  11. Watch for Sea Critters
  12. You are not alone in the sea. A lot of marine creatures live in the water and on the beach. While most are harmless, a few could be dangerous and even life-threatening:

    • Flower urchin
    • Jellyfish
    • Stingrays
    • Stonefish
    • Great barracuda
    • Blue-ringed octopus
    • Cone snail
    • Coral snakes
    • Lionfish

    If you spot any of these, make sure to let the lifeguard know.

  13. Protect Yourselves From the Sun
  14. Children's skin tends to be a lot more sensitive to the sun than adults, but we all need protection from its rays. Make sure to bring a lot of SPF 30 sunscreen and apply it liberally on everyone. Pay close attention to the kids, though. Reapply every two hours and when they get out of the water. Encourage them to remain in the shade during the hottest times of the day.

Image of young girls sitting in a line on the beach with their hands in the air, facing the water.
Girls on the beach

Final Thoughts

When you take the kids out this summer, stay safe, and don't forget these seven lifesaving beach vacation tips when going out to sunbathe. You cannot afford to take a break at the expense of your child's safety.

What are your plans for the coming summer? Let us know the baby beach tips that you use to keep your little ones safe in the comments below.

Author’s Bio

Rachel Burns - While studying at college, she worked as a lifeguard and swimming coach. She was trained by a trainer who has over 30 years of experience in teaching parents beach tips to help protect their families. In the end, Rachel started a blog where she tries to share some tips and answer frequently asked questions on this issue.



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