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The beach: dangers and safety precautions

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Diana M. Cossaboom
  • 20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. --  As the weekend approaches and the forecast shows nothing but clear skies, families and friends often flock to the beach to soak up sand, sun, and summer fun.

Before heading to the beach, Airmen and their families should be aware potential dangers that may be encountered and the repercussions if not careful.

"You should always know what you are getting into before you just jump in," said Master Sgt. Jeffrey Van Strydonk, 20th Comptroller Squadron first sergeant.

Before taking a dip in the ocean, be aware potential conditions that may be present.

Some potential dangers of the beach include: rip currents, weather, dangerous marine life, heat, swimming while intoxicated, and sunburn.

According to the 20th Fighter Wing Ground Safety 2014 Critical Days of Summer Toolkit, between 2009 to 2013 there were a total of seven fatalities and 66 Airmen injuries while swimming. Also, from 2005 to 2009, there was an average of 3,553 unintentional drowning's annually, which equals approximately 10 deaths per day in the civilian population.

One of the dangers of the ocean is to be caught in a rip current. If caught, it is advised to not swim against the current. Swim across the current, parallel to the shore, slowly working back to the beach at an angle.

According to the National Weather Service, smooth water located between breaking waves could signal the presence of a rip current.

"Rip currents form when a sand bar breaks and the trapped water funnels out to the sea through the break, sometimes sweeping swimmers with it," said Tech Sgt. Matthew Vincent, 20th Fighter Wing Ground Safety technician.

Never swim alone in the ocean, and if you are new to swimming use a flotation device.

"If you are at a popular, well used beach that has lifeguards posted, you will be the safest," said Van Strydonk.

Even if there is a lifeguard present, it is important to be aware of the flag conditions and tides, said Van Strydonk.

Common beach flag conditions include:
- Double Red: The beach is closed to the public.
- Single Red: There is a high hazard including high surf or strong currents.
- Yellow: There is a medium hazard pertaining moderate surf or currents are present.
- Green: Conditions are calm, however caution is still necessary.
- Purple: Normally flown with Red or Yellow to signify dangerous marine life, but not sharks.

Different beaches may use different color flags. It is important to know the meanings and obey the warnings.

Some additional tips for beach safety from the National Park Service are:
- Non-swimmers should use Coast Guard-approved flotation vests, even while wading in shallow water.
- Stay sober. Do not swim while intoxicated. Alcohol can affect judgment and body temperature and impairs the ability to swim.
- Don't swim during rough seas. Broken necks and paralysis have resulted from swimmers being thrown into the ocean bottom head first.
- The force of big waves crashing at the shore's edge can pick a person up and throw them into the sand. This may result in a dislocated shoulder or knee.
- Due to dangerous currents, never swim in the inlets.
- Do not swim at night.
- Do not swim near fishing piers.
- Children should swim only with adult supervision.
- Watch the weather. Storms come up quickly.
- Do not swim during thunderstorms. Lightning is extremely dangerous and does strike the beach.
- Watch for jellyfish. If stung, seek first aid if needed. Don't rub sand on the stings. Spraying or pouring vinegar on the sting site often reduces the pain. If you don't have vinegar, try ammonia or denatured alcohol.
- Do not swim near surfers, surfboard fins can cut you.

"On the beach, have fun but be safe," said Van Strydonk. "Take the extra second to think about what you're going to do before you do it. If you second guess what you're about to do, take your advice and don't do it."