Pool and Beach Safety Tips

August 20, 2024

Multi Generation Family Having Fun On Beach Holiday

From diving at the deep end of a public or private swimming pool to building castles in the sand, it’s time for fun in the sun—and for staying safe at the pool as well as on the beach. Focusing on both fun and safety makes good sense—especially when it comes to your kids.

In a recent video, Dr. Alexis Halpern, an Assistant Professor of Clinical Emergency Medicine and Assistant Attending Physician at Weill Cornell Medicine, shares her pool and beach safety tips. See it here.

See her major points below:

Sunscreen

Always wear sunscreen. Try to apply it before you put on your swimsuit so that when your straps move, you’re not left with spots that didn’t get protected.
Apply sunscreen again when you or the kids get out of the water. Re-apply it again every 2 hours, especially if you start to turn red or if you feel as if you’re burning.

“Don’ts” at the pool

Don’t run around the pool. Wet pavement can be slippery for kids and adults alike.
Don’t dive into water that’s less than 9 feet deep.

On the beach

Make sure a lifeguard is watching the kids in the water at all times. Designate at least one person, so everyone knows whose turn it is.
If you dig holes in the sand, make sure they’re no deeper than the waist of the smallest person with you.
If you see warning signs for sharks, stay out of the water.
Remember: Mother Nature is always in charge, and that includes her oceans.

Fun and safety go hand in hand so let’s commit ourselves to both, this summer and every summer!

Learn more about the Department of Emergency Medicine at Weill Cornell Medicine.