Ready for some sun and sand? Here’s what you need to know to stay safe while hanging out at the beach.

Never dig a hole or bury someone in the sand.

Kids love digging deep holes in the beach or burying someone up to their neck in sand. But it’s actually dangerous. In fact, some experts think that suffocation from sand is more common than shark attacks.

Why? Sand is unstable, and it’s heavy. A sand hole holds its shape only as long as it’s wet. It can easily collapse as soon as the sand starts to dry. And if the hole collapses over someone’s head, it’s nearly impossible to clear the sand away so that they can breathe. The sand just keeps filling in open spaces as fast as you can move it away.

It’s best not to dig holes in the beach at all. But if your kids do like to dig in the sand, make sure that they never dig deeper than knee height of the shortest person in the group.

As you’re walking along the beach, keep your kids away from holes in the sand. Fill any large holes you see if you can safely do so.

Know the beach conditions.

Swim only at beaches with lifeguards. And keep in mind that every beach is different. Hidden drop-offs might pose a hazard to swimmers, for example, or rip currents might be common in that area. There could be rocks or debris under the water.

Research before you go – and pay attention to hazard flags – so that you know whether it’s safe to swim or if you should just walk along the shore. And remember that only strong swimmers should go into the ocean.

Stay aware of the weather, the waves or the tide and what is going on around you. If you hear thunder, seek shelter immediately.

Watch where you step.

Bring a first aid kit to the beach. Wear water shoes to protect against injury. Beaches are crawling with creatures – and some can be poisonous. You may also encounter broken glass or sharp shells.

Apply first aid for anyone who has been stung, bitten or cut. Seek medical attention if the person has an allergic reaction or if the injury appears to be serious.

Follow water safety practices.

Never swim alone, and supervise children at all times. In fact, it’s a good idea to designate people in your group who will serve as “water watchers,” with each water watcher assigned to keep an eye on specific members of your party. Make sure everyone stays in designated swimming areas. No one in the group should drink alcohol.

Stay sun safe.

Wear sunscreen of at least SPF 30 that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. No matter the SPF, reapply sunscreen every two hours – more often if you’re sweating or swimming. Wear a floppy hat and sunglasses to protect your eyes. Use an umbrella to keep your group in the shade and out of the sun.

Practice food safety.

If you’re picnicking on the beach, bring plenty of hand sanitizer so that everyone can clean up before eating. Keep perishable foods at a temperature of 40 degrees or below. For hot foods, use insulated containers to keep the food temperature at 140 degrees or above.

Remember the two-hour rule. If your food has been at a temperature between 40 degrees and 140 degrees for two hours, don’t eat it – throw it out. The rule changes to just one hour if the outdoor temperature is hotter than 90 degrees.

Sources:
American Red Cross
National Weather Service
PBS News Hour
U.S. Food and Drug Administration
United States Lifesaving Association