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Ocean Safety Tips for the Family

Everyone can benefit from a bit of vitamin sea every once in a while, but it’s also important you understand how to detect and avoid the unique dangers that come with time on the beach and in the ocean!

To maximize fun while swimming in the ocean, it is essential to practice water safety and swim skills as recommended by reputable sources, such as the American Red Cross, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and oceanic agencies. Going on vacation informed means more fun while maintaining a healthy respect for the ocean's unique nature.

The Unique Dangers of the Ocean

Brush up on your knowledge and plan ahead for:

  • Strong currents, rip currents, and undertows
  • Sudden drop-offs and powerful waves
  • Marine life—jellyfish, stingrays, and even larger (although less common) dangers like sharks and other predators
  • Crowds and limited visibility
  • Heat exhaustion, saltwater fatigue, and dehydration

Start with Strong Swim Skills

One of the best ways to keep every family member safe at the beach is to establish strong water safety and swimming skills before your visit. Having the benefit of professional swim lessons with skilled and caring instructors creates a lifetime of water confidence and safe adventures.

Water safety coaching and swimming lessons can begin with children as young as three months old to build comfort in the water. The American Academy of Pediatrics strongly supports swimming lessons for most children ages four and up. Starting lessons from ages 1 to 4 is encouraged, according to the child’s ability and readiness to learn.

Know the Beach Before You Go

  • Stick to beaches with lifeguards on duty whenever possible.
  • Check the surf and weather reports before you go.
  • Follow up on your weather and ocean safety information upon arrival by checking posted signs and talking with on-duty beach staff.
  • Take note and follow the rules and warnings of all posted signs—swim zones, rip currents and wave warnings, jellyfish and shark alerts, etc.

Ocean Safety Rules for Older Kids & Teens

Review the rules, such as those published by Safe Kids Worldwide, with your kids before arriving at the beach, and away from distractions, so that they can fully focus on retaining the information. Be sure every family member knows what to expect prior to arrival.

Never Swim Alone

Always use the buddy system when swimming in the ocean. This is a must, even for experienced swimmers.

Stay in Designated Swim Areas

Note all posted signs, flags, and buoys used to mark designated swim areas and the recommended skill level for that area.

Respect Rip Currents

Be sure that you and your children understand how to spot a rip current and what to do if they find themselves near or in one.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) describes a rip current as a powerful channel that directs water out and away from the shore. These currents can also carry you or your child out into deeper waters in record time. Any of the following subtle clues can help identify a rip current:

  • A narrow strip of darker, calmer water with breaking waves on either side.
  • Churning or choppy water that looks distinctly different from the surrounding waves and water movement.
  • Areas populated by foam or seaweed that seem to be traveling further out into the water.
  • An area where the water along the shoreline seems to recede faster than the rest of the area.

If you find yourself being pulled out to sea by a rip current, the NOAA advises not to try to fight the current by swimming directly for shore. Instead, swim sideways to break out of the current before heading toward land.

Wave Safety

  • Keep younger children in shallow water where they can easily reach the ocean floor and help them understand how to work with the shifting water and waves.
  • Instruct older children and teens to dive under larger waves rather than letting the waves knock them over.
  • Don’t turn your back on the waves, or stay in strong waves that frequently push you off balance.

Sun & Heat Safety

  • Apply ocean-safe sunscreen at least 15 minutes before entering the water and reapply it every two hours.
  • Wear rash guards, hats, and sunglasses.
  • Take advantage of umbrellas and shaded areas whenever possible.
  • Hydrate frequently to avoid heat exhaustion and saltwater dehydration.
  • Schedule water breaks and rest in the shade.

Marine Life Awareness

  • Teach your children to respect any marine animals they may encounter while swimming in the ocean. The NOAA also provides helpful information on this subject.
  • Stay calm and move slowly around and away from sea creatures. Don’t try to touch or interact with them.
  • Keep your dog on a leash.
  • Don’t touch or destroy coral, tide pools, or other natural habitats and ocean features.
  • Pay attention to posted warning signs about recent marine life activity.
  • Shuffle your feet in shallow water to avoid stingrays.
  • Review information from reputable sources, such as Poison Control, to learn how to recognize and treat jellyfish and stingray stings.

Watercraft & Board Safety

  • Follow guidelines from the U.S. Coast Guard while boating and enjoying other watercraft activities.
  • Always wear a leash on surfboards and boogie boards.
  • Wear proper gear, get expert instruction, and practice safe surfing.
  • Be sure you have practiced and are confident in how to fall safely and how to get back on your watercraft or board.
  • Keep a safe distance from boats and other swimmers.
  • Stay in view of the shoreline and the rest of your party. Don’t separate from your swimming partner.
  • Wear a properly fitted lifejacket on paddleboards and kayaks.

5 Parent Tips for Ocean Safety

No matter what activities you have planned, a family visit to the ocean should involve a little planning to keep everyone safe and on the same page about the family rules during your visit.

Be a Role Model

Don’t expect a child to follow a rule if you aren’t modeling the same behaviors! Wear your sunscreen. Use vests, tethers, and other safety measures to ensure maximum fun and minimum stress for everyone involved.

Remember, alcohol and water activities should never mix.

Know Your Child’s Limits

  • Be sure they stay in swimming areas that match their skills, height, and endurance levels.
  • Keep track of the time and encourage breaks for rest and hydration.
  • Remember that the best way to protect a younger child in beach waters is to use a U.S Coast Guard-approved child life vest. All other flotation devices aren’t certified for lifesaving protection.

Designate a Watcher

Rotate the responsibility of being the designated beach watcher among the adults present. Be sure the watcher is consciously aware of their allotted “on duty” time and their role. Avoid other distractions while keeping an eye on swimming children and beach conditions.

Dress for Safety and Visibility

Choose life vests and swimwear that help you spot your child in larger crowds and murky water.

Studies conducted by Alive Solutions reveal that the most suitable colors for swimming in the ocean are bright, fluorescent, and neon hues. Aim for the biggest contrast to natural water colors as possible.

Pack Safety Essentials

Be sure your beach bag includes:

  • First aid supplies
  • US Coast Guard-certified life jackets and safety equipment
  • Goggles
  • Sunscreen
  • Plenty of drinking water
  • A whistle
  • A fully charged cell phone in a waterproof case
  • An optional set of binoculars

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