- Swim between the green flags. These flags are set up to mark off areas that are safe and have a lifeguard on duty. Ocean accidents happen in a split second, and even the most experienced swimmers should swim under the watch of a lifeguard.
- Swim with a buddy. The lifeguard has many people to watch. It is always smart to have at least one person swimming with you who knows where you are and can get a lifeguard’s attention if needed.
- Swim, surf, or boogie board in areas specifically designated for these activities.
- Be careful of rip currents. If you do enter a rip current, do not try to swim directly to shore. Instead, try to relax and swim parallel to the shoreline until the current allows you to swim back. It may take a little time, but it can also save your life.
- Do not drink and swim. Alcohol is one of the major causes of drowning. It not only lowers body temperatures and impairs judgment, it also prompts risky (and sometimes stupid) behavior. Alcohol is not allowed into Jones Beach and they patrol the beach to enforce this rule. If you do have alcohol, you can be asked to leave the beach and even ticketed.
- Watch for glass, broken shells, bottle caps and other sharp objects in the sand. Likewise, make sure to be considerate and throw your trash out so others don’t get hurt.
- Play safely in the sand. Avoid burying people. While kids love to do this, the sand can quickly collapse and suffocate a person. Also, if your kids dig a hole, fill it in before you leave the beach so others don’t trip or fall into it.
- Use sun protection and drink plenty of water. Bring an umbrella, extra sunscreen to reapply, hats and sunglasses for maximum protection.
Jones Beach has so much to offer, and just following these safety tips will help prevent accidents and injuries that can ruin your trip.
Have You Been Injured at the Beach?
If you or a family member has been injured at the beach, the accident attorneys at Goldstein and Bashner can help you get the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation. We’ll sit down with you to discuss your case, answer all your questions, and let you know what you can expect from the legal process.
