Shore Thing
Heading to the beach? Keep safe this summer with these tips from texasbeachsafety.org, a public service of the Galveston Island Beach Patrol.
Learn to swim
Don’t rely on inner tubes or other inflatable toys to keep you afloat. When you’re ready to hit the sand, swim at a beach protected by a United States Lifesaving Association (USLA) affiliated lifeguard to decrease your chances of drowning to 1 in 18 million. Still, always swim with a buddy who can signal back to shore for assistance in the event that you can’t.
Be alert to posted signs and flags
When you first arrive at the beach, check with lifeguards for the safest place to swim and specific hazards to avoid. Familiarize yourself with local regulations and the meaning of the flags, which may change throughout the day.
Stay away from rocks
Our Texas piers and jetties create an ideal environment for rip currents. Plus barnacles and sea life cling to these structures, increasing the odds of cuts, bites, and stings.
Enter water feet first
Diving puts you headfirst into unknown water that may be shallower than you realize. Check for depth, reach forward for obstructions, and tread carefully.
Know rip current safety
Swim parallel to the shoreline until you feel the current relax, then swim to shore.
Choose sunscreen carefully
Opt for broad-spectrum sunscreen rated from 15 to 50 SPF and reapply regularly throughout the day.
Stay hydrated
Drink lots of water and avoid alcohol, to help mitigate the dehydrating effects of our beautiful Texas sunshine.
© 2017 Texas Farm Bureau Insurance
