Image Source: EscapeArtist

As we approach summer, and hopefully the return of international travel, I’ve began to think about possible travel ideas during the summer. If it hasn’t become very apparent yet, the warm glow and salty breeze of the beach is something that draws me in. Basking in the sun and listening to the crash of the waves in front of me is one of my favorite things to do. Whether it be on a boat or sitting along the shore, the ocean is somewhere that I love to be. I believe that it isn’t just me, however, that enjoys the ocean. I think that a majority of people love it just as much as I do.

Scrolling through my Instagram feed or in Facebook groups for loving mothers, there always seems to be safety advice for children at the beach or posts reminding people to wear sunscreen. Something that I have not seen, however, is a safety guide specifically for college-aged students or teens, or information about etiquette while at the beach. So, I’d like to create a guide for students in my age group who may be traveling alone or with other friends from college.

Image Source: PureWow

We all know basic beach safety, right? Most of us have been taught from a young age to wear sunscreen or to only swim if there is a lifeguard stationed nearby. But what about safety when we don’t have our parents there? There are many things that college students or teens may not think about when traveling alone or with friends to the beach. First, make sure that you have your ID and that you keep it in a safe place. Items like that can easily be stolen if left out in the open, so make sure to store it in a safe place. This goes for money as well. Another thing to remember, specific to the ocean, is to make sure you swim with a friend or make sure that you don’t make your way too far out in the water. The undertow can be very strong, which might make it impossible to get back to shore. If you are caught in a riptide, do not fight it. Try to float or swim parallel to the beach. Once you are out, then begin swimming back. If you are not able to get out, call out for help and wave your hands above the water. If you see someone else stuck, call for a lifeguard and try to throw the person a flotation device.

Another thing to remember, if you are of age, is to drink in moderation if you choose to do so. Excessive heat can lead to severe dehydration, especially when drinking. Alcohol can also impair your judgement, making swimming unsafe. Try to eat a meal before drinking and continue to drink water between drinks. Also try to limit yourself to 2-4 drinks at most per evening. Also make sure not to leave your drink unattended, as drinks can possibly be spiked with date rape drugs or other substances.

Image Source: CaliforniaBeaches

Another thing that I fail to find much information on is beach etiquette. There are a lot of really important things to remember when spending time at the beach. For my age group (college students), it is sometimes forgotten that it is actually not polite to play music on a crowded beach. Though you may enjoy it, others might be there to enjoy the sounds of the ocean or to get some quiet. It is also important to remember that you should not be throwing sand or water. Remember that even if you may be targeting a friend who has consented to playing a game, there are others at the beach who can receive accidental hits. This is not only incredibly impolite, it’s also just awkward for everyone involved. Finally and most importantly, I think, pick up after yourself when you leave. Don’t leave bottles, wrappers, or anything for that matter in the sand when you decide to depart. This is not only annoying to people, but it can injure or kill ocean animals, so please do not leave trash behind.

The beach is a beautiful and exhilarating place to spend time alone or with friends at. You can make countless memories swimming in the cool waters or soaking up the sun. Just remember to keep safety precautions in mind, respect other people sharing the beach with you and those who will come after, and most of all, to have a good time.

Sources:

CDC. “Spring Break Health and Safety Tips – Family Health – CDC.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 23 Dec. 2015, http://www.cdc.gov/family/springbreak/index.htm.

CollegiateParent. “How to Have a Safe Spring Break – 11 Tips for College Students.” CollegiateParent, 5 Feb. 2020, http://www.collegiateparent.com/student-life/spring-break-safety-tips-for-college-students/.

Mental Floss. “15 Old-Fashioned Beach Etiquette Rules.” Mental Floss, 15 July 2015, http://www.mentalfloss.com/article/66065/15-pieces-old-fashioned-beach-etiquette-we-should-remember-summer.

Red Cross. “Beach Safety Tips.” Beach and Ocean Safety | American Red Cross, 2020, http://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/water-safety/beach-safety.html.