Be it a day at the beach or a vacation near a sandy shoreline, your family can have a lot of fun when they’re playing on the sand and in the sea.

 

Older teens can take part in a variety of sports, and younger children can play with their buckets and spades and other play equipment. You can take part in the games your children play too, or you can relax with a good book while they busy themselves around you.

 

However, the beach is not always the safest place to be, so check out these tips for your family’s protection.

 

#1: Choose the right beach

 

There are some fabulous beaches in the world, but there are also those that should probably be avoided. Cleanliness can sometimes be an issue, and litter left by holidaymakers can become a health and safety hazard. The water can be unclean too, so always check with the EPA before choosing a beach to visit, as they regularly monitor bacteria levels. A little bit of research will do much for your peace of mind, so be diligent.

 

#2: Dress in the appropriate clothing

 

To protect members of your family from the sun’s powerful UV rays, ensure everybody has a sun hat and a pair of shades to wear. Clothes should be loose-fitting to protect you all from overheating. And you should all wear the appropriate footwear when you’re exploring the beach, be it sandals, flip flops, or these waterproof knit shoes.

 

#3: Apply sunscreen

 

We know this is obvious but a reminder is always useful. Make sure you pack enough for your family and apply it 30 minutes before going outside. Keep applying it every two hours and make sure every part of the skin is protected. Apply it again whenever family members have been swimming or sweating profusely. The CDA recommends sunscreen with at least SPA 15 for your children, though you should check the labeling for any harmful ingredients. Anything containing oxybenzone should be avoided as it can trigger allergic reactions. 

 

#4: Stay hydrated

 

Make sure you have plenty of water on hand as your family will need to stay hydrated. This is especially true on really hot days, as a lot of body water can be lost through sweat. Don’t wait until people are thirsty as they might forget to drink in the meantime if they’re having fun. Ensure they regularly top themselves up, and refill water bottles from a nearby water source (not the sea, obviously). 

 

#5: Pack a first-aid kit

 

Accidents and injuries do happen, so you need to be prepared. Be it a tumble on the sand, a bite from a pesky bug, or a case of sunburn, you can do much to protect your family if you have the necessary first-aid items with you. Check out the previous link and bring everything you might need with you. It’s better to be safe than sorry, after all!

 

#6: Be mindful

 

Always know where your children are, and make sure they never wander off alone. Consider the heat of the sun and if it gets too hot, move everybody into a shaded area. And take note of any areas of the beach where swimming is not permitted. When you’re mindful of such things, safety is guaranteed, so don’t become complacent when you’re enjoying your beach surroundings. 

 

Thanks for reading!