Tips to Keep You Safe
California's famous coastline is home to beaches that range from serene to rugged and everything in between. And although no visit to the Golden State is complete without a trip to one of its amazing beaches, you'll want to make sure that safety is your number one priority. To that end, we've compiled a list of California ocean safety tips to make sure your day at the beach is, well...a day at the beach.
Look for Lifeguards
Select swimming sites staffed by lifeguards whenever possible; they are there for a reason. Lifeguards know things about each individual beach that you might not: hidden dangers under the water, weather advisories, ocean conditions, and rip currents.
Rip Currents: What to Do
If you are caught in a rip current you must remain calm to conserve energy and to think clearly. Do not fight the current; swim parallel to shore until you are able to escape the current and then swim towards the shore. If you cannot get out of the current or reach the shore, wave your arms and yell for help.
If you are on the shore and see someone stuck in a rip current, immediately get help from a lifeguard or call 9-1-1 if one is not available. Only professionally trained rescuers should attempt in-water rescues. Throw the person something that floats and instruct them to follow the shoreline.
'Rogue' or 'Sleeper' Wave
These are names given to a wave that is suddenly much larger than the average wave at any given time. To avoid getting caught in one, never turn your back on the ocean and remain alert to your surroundings. Avoid exposed rocks during and after storms. If you do get swept in, stay calm and look for an area where waves may be smaller so you can exit without getting injured on jutting rocks.
Be aware of dangerous rip current conditions
Never Swim Alone
Make sure someone is either in the water with you or is watching you from the shore. This is especially true with children who may tire much more quickly and not be able to yell for help in the event of an emergency.
Alcohol and Swimming Don't Mix
Alcohol can lull you into a false sense of security and affect your sense of distance and direction. As a depressant, it also impairs your reaction time, making you more likely to experience an emergency in the water.
Save Your Skin
Getting too much sun is the easiest and most common way to ruin your day at the beach. Make sure to use sunscreen and reapply as recommended. Use a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and/or beach umbrella as much as possible, especially between 10am-2pm, when the sun's rays are strongest. You will also want to stay hydrated, as the combination of sun, heat, and activity can lead to dehydration if you're not vigilant.
Remember: You're Not the Only One Out There
California is home to a wide variety of ocean life, including jellyfish, stingrays, sea lions, and others. Whether in the water or on the beach, you are in their natural habitat. Remember, they want to avoid you; so be respectful and give them their space. You'll also want to walk the shore by dragging your feet in the 'stingray shuffle' manner to avoid inadvertently stepping on a ray.
Along with these California ocean safety tips, make sure to pack a healthy dose of care and common sense; we want your trip to be as safe as it is fun.
Use a sunscreen with a high SPF