NORTH CAROLINA, USA — There are lots of items on a to-do list when it comes to making plans for the summer. Sunscreen? Check. Towels? Check. Beach chairs? Check. While you're at it, think about adding these summer safety tips from the American Red Cross to your mental checklist before heading out this season.
Beach Safety
- Always swim in a lifeguarded area.
- Enter unknown or shallow water cautiously.
- Watch and prepare for fast-moving currents and waves, even in shallow water.
- Do not enter the water from a height, like a bridge or a boat.
How to Avoid Rip Currents:
Rip currents are also a potential beach hazard. Here's what you need to know about navigating rip tides:
- Check for warning flags posted along the beach.
- In the water, always be more than 100 feet away from piers and jetties.
How to Escape a Rip Current:
- Stay calm. Don't fight it.
- Swim parallel to the shore until you are out of the current, or float/tread water.
- Signal to the shore for help.
Pool Safety
- Never leave a young child unattended in the water or under the attention of another child.
- Inexperienced swimmers stay within an arm's length of someone experienced.
- Do not solely rely on flotation devices (inflatable toys, pool noodles, water wings, etc.) if an inexperienced swimmer.
Travel Safety
- Try to only walk and park in lighted, populated areas.
- Keep fuel tank at least a quarter filled at all times.
- If your car breaks down, raise the hood or tie a white cloth tied to your antenna.
- Share your travel plans with a family or friend not on the trip. (Arrival time, lodging plans, travel route, etc.)
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