Stay safe in the surf

Nothing says summer like a day at the beach or pool, but water safety starts long before anyone enters the water. Whether you're spending the day at the shore, visiting a neighborhood pool or traveling with family, taking a few simple precautions can help prevent injuries and save lives.

According to Parker Brigance, DNP, RN, CEN, director of Emergency Services for Baptist Health, preparation, visibility, supervision and knowing where to seek care in an emergency are all critical steps for staying safe around water.

Prepare before you swim

“I’d encourage parents to consider enrolling children in age-appropriate swimming lessons to help build confidence and basic water competency,” Brigance said. “While swimming lessons don't replace supervision, they're an important layer of protection.”

Brigance advised that when selecting swimwear, it’s best to choose bright, highly visible colors such as neon orange, pink, yellow or green. These colors are generally easier to spot underwater and from a distance than blue, gray or white swimsuits, helping parents and caregivers maintain visual contact with swimmers.

Look for lifeguards

It's best to swim where lifeguards are on duty, but nothing should take the place of your own direct supervision of children.

“Keep your full attention on children whenever they're in or near the water,” Brigance said. “Lifeguards provide an added layer of safety and can alert swimmers to dangerous marine life, rough currents or changing water conditions.”

Stay alert around water

No amount of training or equipment replaces active adult supervision around water.

"Drowning can happen quickly and often without splashing or yelling as many people expect," said Brigance. "Keep children within arm's reach when appropriate, avoid distractions such as phones or conversations, and designate a responsible adult to actively watch the water. A moment of attention can prevent a lifetime of tragedy."

Check beach conditions before you go

Beach conditions can change quickly. It’s good practice to check the surf and safety warnings before making plans to swim.

“Before heading to the beach, take a few minutes to check the conditions and pay attention to posted warning flags,” Brigance said. “If there's a strong surf or rip current risk, it’s safest to stay out of the water. In Jacksonville Beach, visitors can check the live surf report before heading out.”

Caught in a rip current?

According to Brigance, the best thing to do if you find yourself in a rip current is to remain calm and not fight it. Instead, swim parallel to the shoreline until you're free of the current, then swim back to shore.

Watch for dangerous marine life

Brigance also recommended scanning the water and shoreline for signs of jellyfish or other marine hazards before getting in the water. Portuguese man-o-war, for example, are often turquoise and can look like floating balloons. If you're stung, seek help from a lifeguard for first aid. Purple flags at beach entrances are also a warning for dangerous marine life.

Don't wait for lightening to strike

Brigance reminded anyone spending time in or around water that summer storms can develop quickly and lightning can strike up to 10 miles from where rain is falling. If you hear thunder, he recommended leaving the water and seeking shelter immediately, then staying away from the water for at least 30 minutes after the last thunderclap.

Know where to go in an emergency

Before heading to the beach or pool, take a moment to identify the nearest emergency care location and know the fastest route to get there if needed. Whether you're enjoying the water close to home or visiting a new area, having a plan can help you respond promptly when every minute matters.

"Baptist Health and Wolfson Children's Hospital provide award-winning emergency care options throughout Northeast Florida for both adults and children," said Parker Brigance. "Knowing where to go before an emergency happens can help families get the care they need as quickly as possible."