How to Stay Safe at the Beach

Tens of thousands of people flock to Delray Beach each winter to enjoy the surf and sun, and we can’t blame them. With much of the U.S. blanketed by snow and struggling with sub-zero temperatures, we are lucky enough to enjoy sun and 80-degree weather during the winter months.

However, many people sustain injuries on the beach. Because we want all people to be safe, whether they are visitors or year-round residents, we highlight the most common dangers and how to protect against them.

Use Sunscreen to Protect Against Cancer

What visitor to Delray Beach doesn’t want a tan? There is nothing better than to return to your snowbound home with a tan earned by laying out in the sun for hours.

However, sun exposure is a leading cause of skin cancer, which is now the most common type of cancer for men and women. If caught early, most skin cancers can be cured. Nevertheless, around 12,000 people will die every year from skin cancer.

You might not think one bad burn will cause cancer—and it probably won’t. But sun damage is cumulative. Sun damage can also prematurely age people—yet another reason to enjoy the sun responsibly.

To protect yourself, remember to wear sunscreen with at least an SPF of 15—the higher number the better. Apply generously before going out to the beach and remember to reapply after a few hours.

Swim Close to a Lifeguard

Most people who drown at the beach do so at an unguarded site, so always choose to swim as close to the lifeguard station as possible. This is a particularly important concern if you have children going out to swim. A lifeguard can spot danger coming a mile away and rescue you or your child if you are in trouble.

Know How to Escape a Rip Current

Rip currents are strong currents of water that run away from the shore. It is very easy to get caught in a current and find yourself being swept helplessly out to sea.

The number one key is not to fight the current by swimming against it toward shore. You’ll never be able to reach shore but will, instead, run out of energy. Remember the following:

• Shout for help. A lifeguard should notice you and come to your rescue.
• Swim parallel to the beach. In this way, you can eventually escape the rip current and then eventually be able to work your way back to safety.
  

Avoid Alcohol

Alcohol creates two problems for beachgoers. For one, it is dehydrating, so you might quickly feel the effects of the sun by getting heat stroke. If you start to feel dizzy or hot, get out of the sun as soon as possible and drink water to rehydrate.

Alcohol can also impair judgment, leading people to take risks they wouldn’t otherwise. For example, someone who is drunk might swim farther out than they should. Alcohol can also impair coordination, so even a seasoned swimmer could get into trouble.

If you want to drink, make sure to do so away from the beach, such as at dinner in the evening.

Earnhart Law Has Served Delray Beach for Over 30 Years

Few local law firms have our track record of success. We have built our reputation by providing top quality legal representation for those injured in accidents due to another person’s negligence.

If you have a question about a possible legal case, contact us today. You can call 561-265-2220 to schedule a free consultation.

Resource:

aad.org/media/stats/conditions/skin-cancer

https://www.delrayinjuryattorneys.com/what-are-contingency-fees/