Beach Safety

Experience the world famous Hollywood Beach

Relax and Feel the Breeze

10 potential dangers to be aware of and precautions to take while visiting the beach:

Sunburn: Protect yourself from harmful UV rays by applying sunscreen with a high SPF before heading to the beach and reapplying regularly, especially after swimming or sweating. Wear protective clothing, such as hats and sunglasses, and seek shade during peak sun hours.

Rip Currents: Be aware of rip currents, which are powerful currents that can pull swimmers away from shore. Avoid swimming in areas with strong rip currents, swim parallel to the shore if caught in one, and signal for help if unable to swim back to shore.

Jellyfish Stings: Watch out for jellyfish in the water and along the shoreline. If stung, rinse the affected area with vinegar to neutralize the venom, remove any tentacles with tweezers, and seek medical attention if symptoms are severe.

Drowning: Always swim near a lifeguard and never swim alone. Be cautious of strong waves and currents, especially if you are not a strong swimmer. Use flotation devices and stay within designated swimming areas.

Heat Exhaustion/Dehydration: Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, especially in hot weather. Take breaks in the shade, wear light clothing, and avoid strenuous activity during the hottest parts of the day to prevent heat exhaustion and dehydration.

Marine Life Encounters: Be cautious of marine life such as sharks, stingrays, and sea urchins. Do not disturb or approach marine animals, and shuffle your feet when wading in shallow waters to avoid stepping on stingrays.

Sand Collapses: Avoid digging deep holes in the sand, as they can collapse and cause injury or suffocation. Fill in any holes before leaving the beach and supervise children to prevent accidents.

Weather Hazards: Stay informed about weather forecasts and be prepared for sudden changes in weather conditions, such as thunderstorms or strong winds. Seek shelter indoors if lightning is present and avoid swimming during rough weather.

Water Quality: Check water quality reports for the beach you plan to visit and avoid swimming in polluted or contaminated waters. Rinse off after swimming and avoid swallowing seawater to prevent illness.

Ocean Pollution: Dispose of trash properly and avoid littering on the beach to prevent pollution of the ocean and harm to marine life. Be cautious of sharp objects, broken glass, and other debris on the beach.