The beach is a fantastic place to spend the day with friends and family, but without the right precautions, a great day could turn bad. Take these steps and make sure to keep your day safe and fun.

Before you go: Having a good day begins before you even leave your home.

• Be Informed: Check the weather and water conditions before you decide to make a day of it. If you see the waters too rough, or the heat may be more than you can handle, reschedule… The beach will be there tomorrow.
• Hydrate: Make sure to have plenty of water before leaving home and on hand with you for your day. You’ll lose more fluid than you think in the heat, even if you aren't sweating. (remember, caffeine and alcohol will dehydrate you. So, those types of beverages don't count!)
• Protect your skin: Sunblock is a must. Apply before you leave for the beach so by the time you arrive it’s absorbed and doing its job. Reapply as needed. Also, don't forget shade. You’ll still get plenty tan under an umbrella.
• Be Prepared: Take a minute to make sure you’ve brought everything you may need. Do you have a source of shade? Did you bring fluid to hydrate? How about any medications you may need to have on hand for medical conditions or emergencies?

When you get there:

• Be visible: Make sure there’s something about your setup that’s easily recognizable for any smaller children with you. A brightly colored umbrella, or tent if they’re allowed are great, but even a landmark to follow can help prevent kids from getting lost.
• Have a plan: Set a family meeting location in a visible public spot like a beach entrance gate or police post. In the event anyone gets separated, agree to meet back at that location.
• Know the rules: All beaches aren’t the same. Different beaches will have different rules and regulations specific to their location. Read all signage and follow any rules in place.

Water Time!

• Check in with lifeguards: Especially if you’re unfamiliar with the beach you're at, ask lifeguards about any water hazards you should know about. Tell them about your swimming abilities and they'll let you know if there’s a best place for you to enjoy the water.
• Stay in areas designated for swimming: Never stray outside of swimming areas marked by lifeguards. They’ve got good reason for keeping you there.
• Never swim alone: Even though lifeguards are watching all swimmers for distress. Having a buddy with you is the safest way to swim. If your buddy is having a hard time, don’t try to help them yourself. signal for lifeguards by waving your arms right away.

Before your leave:

• Clean up: keeping our beaches clean and safe is everyone's responsibility. Before you go make sure you leave nothing behind. If the beach you’re at allows open flames and fire pits, properly extinguish before leaving. If you were building or digging in the sand, fill and smooth any areas you may have disrupted.

  If you keep these things in mind and take the time to prepare yourself you’re lining yourself up to have a great beach day free of preventable problems.