Beach and Ocean Safety Tips
Every summer, we see an influx of visitors to the Gulf Coast area. Each city fills with people who are excited to spend quality time with family under the sun. We always look forward to summertime because of the excitement. Because our beaches are full, we thought it would be a good time to remind guests about a few beach & ocean safety tips that could make or break your overall stay.
The most important thing to remember during your Gulf Coast getaway is to listen to the professionals. Check the weather before you head to the beach, watch the lifeguards for any signs of danger, etc.
Obey Posted Flags
If you have ever been to the beach, then you have likely seen different colored flags flying over the sand. These flags serve a very important purpose. They tell you whether or not it is safe to swim. We have listed a clear guide below for you to follow:
Purple – Dangerous Marine Life
Green – Low Hazard, Calm Conditions
Yellow – Medium Hazard, Moderate Surf and/or Currents, Average Swimmers Should Avoid Water
Red – High Hazard, High Surf, and/or Strong Currents, It is Advised that NO ONE ENTERS WATER
Double Red – Water Closed to Public
We understand how frustrating it can be to plan your beach vacation and arrive at the beach to see a Yellow or Red flag flying. However, these flags are meant to protect you, your loved ones, and our first responders. We ask you to follow them closely and stay out of the water when instructed to.
Rip Currents
You may have heard of Rip Currents, but do you understand what they mean? Rip currents are powerful, narrow channels of fast-moving water. They are typically below the surface and can be hard to spot from the shore. The flags mentioned above are set out based on rip currents.
If you find yourself caught in a rip current, stay calm. Relax and swim steadily parallel to the shoreline. Swimming parallel to the shoreline will help you break out of the rip current. Remember – do not swim against the current. This will tire you out quickly.
Sun Protection
The Gulf Coast is known for its strong sunshine. One of the most popular souvenirs guests take home with them from a beach vacation is a sunburn. There are ways to avoid overexposure.
- Wear sunscreen and reapply every few hours or after every dip in the ocean.
- Bring a hat, sunglasses, and a long sleeve to wear if you feel as though you are getting too much sun.
- Grab some Aloe when you get into town and apply that each evening.
- Stay hydrated and avoid drinking alcohol and caffeine while sunbathing.
We hope sharing these beach & ocean safety tips will help you have a successful summer vacation with Southern Vacation Rentals along the Gulf Coast.