subject: Child Safety On The Beach [print this page] Summertime has finally arrived, there is a blue sky and suns shining, so pack those beach bags, put the kids in the car, gather the essentials and head for a fun day along the coast
Woolacombe is a popular surfing resort but is also good for many other pursuits, there is a golden beach to enjoy, catering for everyone. There is a toy train ride on the beach which very young children love, and teens can be satisfied with adventurous pursuits such as hiring a surf board and even the clothing! They will both be happy for the day.
To ensure that the day remains the memorable fun occasion it is intended to be there are a few simple safety rules. If the following straightforward information is observed then everyone will have a good day. Most unfortunate incidents experienced by families on a day out could have been avoided by following a few basic pieces of information outlined below.
There are a number of factors to keep in mind whilst visiting a beach with a party of children. To ensure everyone returns home safe and sound with only those happy memories. Generally speaking, most incidents that happen on a beach could be easily avoided if the adult in the party simply carries out a simple risk assessment.
The following are important points to bear in mind:
It is important to know exactly where your children are at all times
Give a landmark for children to return to as the beach looks very large from the edge of sea
Ensure you use adequate sunscreen and apply regularly, even on cool days
Sunhat/Top is advisable if prolonged period on beach to avoid sunburn/sunstroke
Advise a lifeguard immediately if your child is missing
ALWAYS STAY NEARBY if not in water yourself
Not advisable to continue playing in water once lifeguards have left for day
Ensure adequate fluid intake
Get a Childrens Wetsuit to help protect them & keep them warmer in the sea
Blow up Toys & Airbeds
These are not designed for use in the sea but for pools. They can easily be swept out, if you must use them then the following guidelines should be observed:
Stay nearby
Ensure supervision by an adult at all times
Only use between the red and yellow flags* - there may be dangerous currents outside of these areas
Ensure you know what the flag meanings are * see below for beach flag meanings
Lifeguards advice should be followed on conditions
Avoid large waves
If an orange windsock is flying never use them as this indicates offshore winds
Red & Yellow Flags
Life-guarded area, safest place to swim body board and use inflatables
Black & White Flags
For surf-boards, kayaks and other non-powered craft, never surf or body board here
Red FlagDanger! Never go in the water when the red flag is up under ANY circumstances
Orange Flag
Show offshore winds or unsafe wind conditions - never use an inflatable when the sock is flying
Remember to get your child from a Childrens Wetsuit Specialist
