Myrtle Beach is a popular vacation spot, and it’s easy to see why. There’s so much to do when you’re in Myrtle Beach, SC! From sightseeing cruises to gardens, restaurants, shows, and much more, there’s plenty to keep the whole family entertained.
And of course, you’re sure to spend plenty of time on the beach.
Soaking up the sun and relaxing on the sand can be the perfect vacation activity, but you don’t want all that time spent outdoors next to the water to compromise your health and safety, or the health and safety of your family.
It doesn’t matter if you’re traveling alone or with family, these tips will ensure you stay healthy and safe during your stay at Myrtle Beach.
Protect Yourself from the Sun
You have probably heard it a million times, but it is extremely important that you protect your skin from the sun while you’re at the beach. That means doing things like:
- Staying in the shade during the hottest part of the day
- Wearing wide brimmed hats
- Applying sunscreen at least once every two hours
- Wearing sunglasses with UV protection
It also means knowing what to do if you do end up getting sunburned. Aloe Vera can do wonders for a sunburn when you return to the hotel. Make sure you don’t make the burn worse by slathering on the sunscreen the next day and wearing protective clothing.
Know Your Swimming Skill Level
It can be a lot of fun to splash in the waves, but the excitement can soon turn to terror if you aren’t confident in your abilities.
If you’re not a very good swimmer, or you have a small child who is a swimming newbie, it’s a good idea to stick to the shallowest parts of the beach. Even if you believe yourself to be a skilled swimmer, it’s still a good idea to be cautious. Even the best swimmers can find themselves out a little too far and discover that swimming back to shore isn’t as easy as it sounds.
Know What You Can Eat and Drink
Contrary to popular belief, there’s no reason to wait at least 30 minutes before swimming after you have eaten. However, that doesn’t mean there aren’t important rules you should follow when it comes to eating and drinking while you’re at the beach.
Ensure you don’t get dehydrated by drinking plenty of water and fluids that contain electrolytes. Avoid sugary beverages because they can dehydrate you faster. You should also avoid alcohol because it can increase your risk of drowning.
Feel free to eat before swimming, but listen to your body. If you ate a large meal and feel sluggish, it would be a good idea to wait until your energy is back up before diving into the waves.
Provide Children with Constant Supervision
It can be a big job to keep children safe at the beach. And don’t think you can relax just because your child knows how to swim!
All children should be monitored closely, even if they have had swimming lessons. The beach can disorient even the strongest swimmer in an instant, so constant vigilance is needed.
Keep a close on your child. If they don’t know how to swim, keep them in the shallows and at arm’s reach. If your child knows how to swim, let them venture out, but always be a few seconds away from providing them with a rescue, if needed.
Know What to Do If Someone Starts Feeling Ill
It isn’t uncommon for beach goers to feel a little ill for a variety of reasons. It’s important to know what to do if that is you or someone you love.
If you or someone you’re with mentions they don’t feel well, it’s important to move them to a shaded area immediately. An air conditioned space is even better, if it’s available. Apply cool water to their skin, and try and get them to drink some water. They should rest until they feel completely well.
If their condition doesn’t improve over the next 30 minutes, or if they lose consciousness, you should seek the help of a medical professional.
Make sure your next trip to Myrtle Beach is one you and your family want to remember for the right reasons. With the tips on this list, you can ensure everyone returns home safe and happy so you can plan your next visit to this popular vacation destination!
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