Stay Safe Out There
Venturing out into the ocean is a milestone everyone deserves to experience at least once! There’s nothing like dipping your toes in blue waters, floating out just far enough to enjoy the beach but close enough that you’re safe—which is key. As fun as it can be, the ocean is a harsh reminder of safety protocols, and we’re here to go through them.
1. Unpredictable Conditions
You never really know what’s waiting for you out there. The water looks peaceful enough, but even the most experienced swimmer can get lost in a current. It’s essential to follow lifeguards' instructions and posted signs; going out farther than you should can lead to serious trouble.
2. Going Out Too Far
Speaking of which, when you venture too far into the ocean, all sorts of hazards could pull you under. Currents and riptides claim more lives than you think, so don’t trust that waters that look calm will be calm.
3. Aquatic Life
You wouldn’t just feed a bear, would you? (We hope not anyway.) Wildlife and aquatic life deserve the same amount of respect, and you deserve to keep your fingers! The ocean is filled with all sorts of colorful creatures that are actually more dangerous than they look, so keep to yourself.
4. Limited Visibility
The further you go out, the further you get from the beach. When people can’t see you, they can’t help you, and it’s even harder to flag someone down if you need help. You could also get turned around, leading to even more confusion.
5. Help Isn’t Close By
A lifeguard’s job is to keep a close eye on anyone in the vicinity. But when you swim past your limits, it’s harder for people to see you. Worse still, it’s harder for them to hear you.
