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There is an old sailing adage that says “the sea is no place for the inexperienced”. This is true for our coastal waters too. Beachgoers often underestimate the potential dangers associated with ocean swimming, and water safety at the beach is a serious concern. Keep in mind that children who can swim in a pool may not be able to swim in the turmoil of the surf. What are potential dangers at the beach?
Rip Currents
Rip currents are narrow, fast-moving channels of water that can pull even strong swimmers away from shore. Often mistaken for undertow, which is a strong current flowing underwater in a different direction, a rip current is far more powerful and dangerous. Rip currents can occur at any beach with breaking waves and are especially common near sandbars, piers, and jetties. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), rip currents are responsible for more than 80% of rescues performed by beach lifeguards. Swimmers caught in a rip current may panic and try to swim directly back to shore, quickly becoming exhausted. Experts advise instead to swim parallel to the shore to escape the current’s grip before heading back toward land. Would-be rescuers are advised not to swim into the rip current but should throw a life ring and call for help from shore patrols or life guards if available or call 911. Click here to view a video on how to survive a rip current.
In addition to rip currents and undertows, changing tides and strong wave action can also present risks, particularly for children and weaker swimmers. Sudden drop-offs in the ocean floor and unexpected large waves can lead to falls, injuries, or being swept into deeper waters.
Marine Life
Jellyfish or stingrays may also pose threats in coastal regions. The most common type of jellyfish in South Carolina is the sea nettle, the sting of which may cause severe pain. To treat the sting, wash the wound with seawater (not freshwater) and remove any residual tentacles as they will continue to discharge venom. Rinse with vinegar or hot water and apply a mild hydrocortisone cream. Get medical treatment if pain is severe and if systemic symptoms such as breathing difficulty, chest or abdominal pain occur.
Jellyfish stranded on the beach can still sting. The common cannon ball jellyfish is essentially harmless but other species such as Portuguese man o’ war are extremely dangerous. To prevent jellyfish stings wear a rubber wet suit or stay out of the water when they are sighted.
Beach safety also includes monitoring for hypothermia, especially in children and the prevention of sunburn, dehydration and heatstroke.
To ensure safety, beach visitors should always heed warning flags, swim near lifeguard stations, and stay informed about local water conditions. Understanding these natural forces and respecting their power is essential for a safe and enjoyable beach experience.
-Submitted by Derek Fyfe, Waterproof, Inc.
Note: To view the previous articles in this series entitled “Water Safety Guidelines to Teach Children”, “What Does Drowning Look Like?”, “How Safe is Your Pool Party?”, go to tidelinesblog.com and in the search bar type: being water wise.
(Image credits: whyy.org; Adobe Stock)