How to Stay Safe at the Beach or Pool This Summer

SUNDAY, July 13, 2025 (HealthDay News) — A day at the beach or pool is a great way to beat the summer heat — but it can also be risky if you’re not careful.Dr. Eric Costanzo of Hackensack Meridian Jersey Shore University Medical Center has some valuable advice to help families stay safe this summer, whether at the shore or at home by the pool. The ocean can be unpredictable. One of the biggest threats is rip currents — fast, narrow streams of water moving away from shore. They can pull swimmers out to sea.Rip currents often look like darker, calmer areas between breaking waves. If you get caught in one, don’t swim against it. Swim parallel to the shore to escape it.“Always swim at designated beaches with lifeguards present," Costanzo said in a news release. "Obey their instructions and heed posted warnings about water conditions. Never swim alone, even if you're a strong swimmer.”And keep a close eye on the kiddos.“Younger children should always be supervised by an adult, ideally within arm's reach, especially near the water's edge," Costanzo said. "Waves can knock even experienced swimmers off their feet.”Sun safety is also important. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and reapply every two hours, especially after swimming. Wear a hat and sunglasses, and drink plenty of water throughout the day.Watch for signs like dizziness, nausea, confusion or a fast pulse. While staying hydrated is key, drinking too much plain water without electrolytes can be harmful, too, so maintain a good balance.“Don’t dive headfirst into the water or run and jump into unknown water. Also, don’t dive toward the bottom of waves or off a pier, jetty or bridge," Costanzo said."If you wipeout in the surf, try to land as flat or parallel to the ground as possible, with your arms protecting your head. If you find someone incapacitated on the beach, don’t try to move them, call 9-1-1."Additionally, jellyfish stings can happen. If you're stung, rinse the skin with seawater (not freshwater), and remove any tentacles with tweezers. See a doctor if symptoms are severe and always avoid touching or feeding ocean animals.Pools may seem safer, but they also pose risks — especially for kids.Never leave children alone near a pool, not even for a minute. Costanzo recommends installing a fence with a self-closing, self-latching gate to prevent accidents.Other pool safety steps:Teach kids to swim, but always supervise them (even strong swimmers).Keep pool drains covered to prevent hair or clothing from getting stuck.Don’t let children run, dive in shallow water or horseplay.Keep a phone nearby and learn CPR in case of emergency.“Whether at the beach or the pool, alcohol and water don't mix. Alcohol impairs judgment, coordination, and reaction time, increasing the risk of accidents. Never swim under the influence of alcohol or drugs,” Costanzo said.Watch the weather, too.“Thunderstorms can develop quickly, and lightning is a serious hazard," Costanzo said. "Exit the water immediately if you hear thunder or see lightning.”With some simple steps and awareness, summer fun near the water can stay just that — fun.More informationJohns Hopkins Medicine has more on water safety for parents.SOURCE: Hackensack Meridian Health, news release, June 23, 2025 .What This Means For YouWhether at the beach or by the pool, knowing the risks and following safety tips can help prevent accidents and keep your summer fun..Sign up for our weekly HealthDay newsletter

How to Stay Safe at the Beach or Pool This Summer

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