When planning your next vacation at the beach, there are certain considerations to bear in mind. Whether you are going to a tropical island or out-of-town beach, it is still important to be careful in terms of your health as well as prevent injuries from occurring. By enrolling in a first aid course, you will be prepared to handle any of the beach hazards while at the beach.
Common beach hazards
Skin cancer
Even though getting a golden tan has been considered as a luxury in the past, the sun at the present is not the same as it was decades ago. The rays it produces can trigger a potentially deadly cancer.
As long as it is diagnosed early and treated appropriately, skin cancer is curable. Simple steps such as wearing sunscreen can help prevent skin cancer in the first place. There are also several safety measures in order to prevent the disease.
- Stay in the shade and wear protective clothing such as long sleeves, wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses with UV lenses.
- Avoid exposure to the sun between 11AM – 3 PM.
- When using a sunscreen, look for one that protects against the sun’s UVB and UVA rays as well as SPF (sun protection factor) of 15 or higher.
- Always apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going out and reapply every two hours or more often if sweating a lot or swimming.
Even on cloudy days, it is still important to use sunscreen. The UV radiation is still the same even if it is cold or cloudy outside. While most cases of skin cancer typically manifest after reaching 50 years old, it is vital to be protected at all times from the radiation of the sun.
Hot weather
The heat and humidity during the summer season can push the cooling process of the body to its limit. It is important to wear light clothes and use an umbrella when the sun is at its highest in the sky. Do not forget to drink plenty or water to prevent dehydration.
If the individual feels faints or experiences muscle cramps, it is best to look for a shade since he/she might be suffering from one of the heat-related disorders.
- Heat exhaustion – symptoms include weakness, heavy sweating, clammy and pale skin, fainting and vomiting. The individual must lie down in a cool area. You have to loosen the clothing and apply a cool wet cloth and provide fluids to drink. If vomiting occurs, seek medical care.
- Heatstroke – the symptoms include elevated body temperature, rapid pulse, hot and dry skin as well as unconsciousness. Bring the individual to the nearest hospital or call for emergency assistance. While waiting for the medical team to arrive, do not provide anything to drink but try to cool his/her body.
Marine animals
When enjoying at the beach, you should also be careful with some of the marine life especially jellyfish since they are also beach hazards to watch out for. These creatures can vary in length from a few inches up to three feet long with long, gangly tentacles that can deliver a painful sting.
A sting from a jellyfish can cause a mild, burning sensation and rash that typically vanishes in a few minutes. It is best to get out of the water if you feel a sting similar to a bee and try to avoid getting stung again.
When treating a jellyfish sting, the area can be rinsed with salt water and apply vinegar in order to neutralize the venom.