BEACH SAFETY PLAN

Courtesy of Santa Rosa County Sheriff's Office

1. Children should be supervised at all times, even when lifeguards are present.

2. Children should never go into the water alone and should always swim near a lifeguard if possible.

3. Use flotation devices such as rafts or plastic floats under adult supervision only. Do not leave a child unattended. Remember they are not lifesaving devices and they can be dangerous if not used properly.

4. Stay away from breaking waves. They can push you underwater, knock you into another swimmer, render you unconscious, and may cause physical harm or death.

5. Don't panic or swim against rip currents. Swim parallel to the shore until you are out of the rip current.

6. Always pay attention to and obey the warning flags flown at beach facilities.

7. In case of a thunderstorm, stay away from the water. Seek shelter in a building or vehicle.

8. Use a water resistant sunscreen of no less than SPF 15 even on cloudy days. (We recommend a higher SPF 35-50+)

9. Wear a hat and light colored, loose fitting clothing to cut down on the exposure of your skin to sunlight. This will also help keep you cool.

10. Stay in the shade, whenever possible (especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Drink plenty of fluids (at least 1 cup every 20 minutes) especially during strenuous activities.

LEARN THE WARNING CODES