Beach Holidays – Tips to Avoid Common Hazards

Before you head to the beach it’s a good idea to do a little research and be prepared to recognise and avoid some of the potential dangers.  There are plenty of excellent resources online, so we will point out a few of them and you can go from there.

Jellyfish are beautiful and alien-looking creatures but also a potential hazard. It can be hard to imagine how magnificent they appear in the water when mostly we only see them lying on the sand in a seemingly lifeless, ugly glob.  

Many children and adults are unaware that a dead jellyfish (or pieces of dead jellyfish) still have active stingers – so avoid making contact with your skin.  Not all jellyfsh sting, but it’s probably best not to give them the benefit of the doubt!

Do you know your Lion’s Mane from your Mauve Stinger, or Compass jellyfish?  The Marine Conservation Society has a downloadable Jellyfish Identification Guide. They are also interested to hear reports about any jellyfish encounters on UK beaches.  While visiting their site why not sign up to volunteer for their Beachwatch Big Weekend 2010, which takes place from 18-19 September.  Visit the MCS website here. 

The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) website is another great resource for beachgoers.  They have excellent tips for beach and water safety, which includes information about rip currents, understanding beach flags, and a guide to the dangers of blow-up airbeds and inflatable boats at the beach - Click here.

Don’t forget the obvious, like sunscreen, sunglasses, hat and a cover-up.   Beach umbrellas may give a false sense of security by blocking the direct rays of the sun but you are still exposed to radiation that could be harmful, so it is important to protect yourself. 

While snorkelling recently in the Balearic Islands, we had a painful warning and reminder of how quickly you can burn in the water.  Use a good waterproof sunblock and/or cover up with a white tee-shirt to protect your back. 

There have been reports of Weever fish on UK beaches.  During hot summer months they may be present, though mostly invisible as they bury themselves in the sand. The poisonous spines on their backs can puncture the skin when trodden on and cause pain.  Some people have allergic reactions to the stings and they have been known to trigger serious health problems.  The fish like to hide in the sand at low tide, so it’s smart to wear beach sandals when paddling or exploring rock pools.  Surfers are also at risk from stepping on them.  First-aid for Weaver fish stings involves immersing the affected foot in very hot water.  Using a lifeguard-patrolled beach is always a good idea as you have trained staff on hand.

Hazards to marine life and humans also involves encounters with old fishing hooks and line, glass, plastic, and all manner of rubbish that gets carelessly dumped into the sea and ends up on our beaches.

Beware of Flip-flops!  Another hazard, believe it or not, is injuries caused by wearing Flip-flop sandals!  Hands up all those who have stubbed their toes or tripped when the front bit curled under.  If worn too much they can cause long-term foot pain and problems as well as blisters and shin splints. Falls may result in sprains and factures. 

PLEASE take your litter home with you and if you see items left by inconsiderate people, why not be a good citizen and clean-up after them.   Please feel free to share any of your personal stories, tips, or advice.

Lastly, why not take the sting out of your holiday expenses with a low cost quote for travel insurance.

Flickr cc Image:  Dan Hershman (Lion’s Mane jellyfish)