Splash Safe This Summer: Beach and Pool Safety

Summer sun and fun are here and, with that, comes sea breeze, white sand, and warm water at the beach or the pool. But, not to ruin your fun, there are some water safety rules to keep in mind when you and your family hit the ocean, pool, or water park. A little preparation and awareness can go a long way in preventing accidents and making your vacation truly enjoyable.

We want you to enjoy your time here in Myrtle Beach, but we also want the best for your well-being during your stay, so here are some safety tips from our friends at the YMCA of Coastal Carolina have gathered for you to make sure that happens:

Tip #1: 

Make sure children know to always ask for permission before going in or near the water

Teaching your children to be water smart is the first step in water safety – be sure they understand the importance of asking permission before going in or near the water. 

Tip #2:

Never swim alone without a water watcher - Supervise your children whenever they’re in or near water

When children are swimming, make sure they are actively supervised at all times. Teach your children that they should only swim in locations where a lifeguard is on duty, or where a responsible adult agrees to watch the children in the water without distractions.

Tip #3:

Don’t engage in breath holding activities

Both adults and children should not hold their breath for a prolonged amount of time while swimming, as this can be dangerous.

Tip #4:

Wear a life jacket

Inexperienced or non-swimmers should always wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket while in or around the water.

Tip #5:

Don’t jump in the water to save a friend who is struggling in deep water

If an adult or child finds their friend in deep water unexpectedly, their natural reaction may be to jump in the water to try and save them. Even if they are a great swimmer, a panicked person will overpower them, pulling the rescuer under water. The Y’s Safety Around Water program teaches the “reach, throw, don’t go” concept of using a long object to reach for them, and pull them to safety. By using this technique, an adult or child can help their friend without compromising their own safety.

Tip #6:

Rip Current Safety - Float it, Don't Fight It

If you’re caught in a rip current, don’t panic—float, don’t fight. Trying to swim directly back to shore against the current can quickly exhaust even the strongest swimmers. Instead, stay calm, keep your head above water, and float to conserve energy. Signal for help and let the current carry you until it weakens, then swim parallel to the shore and back in safely. This simple tip could save your life.

Additional information to keep in mind:

Use sun protection: It’s imperative to apply sunscreen (and to reapply after you’ve dipped in the water) to protect your skin from the dangerous UV rays. Sunburns are painful and can ruin a vacation. Additional sun protection to pack are UV-protected sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and beach umbrella for shade. Read this blog for more info on Myrtle Beach’s umbrella rules.

Hydrate!: Not drinking enough water on a hot, sunny day can lead to dehydration and heat exhaustion. Plan to drink at least two cups of water an hour – especially if you are also drinking alcohol.

Feet First: Most resort pools are too shallow to dive in, so be sure to jump in feet first to avoid head or neck injuries. Notice signs at the pool indicating the depth. Also, while we’re talking about feet, advise your kiddos not to run on the pool deck, which can get quite slippery and cause falls. Last, be sure to wear flip flops or sandals from the resort or beach access to the ocean … our summer sand gets hot and could cause burns.

Keep an eye out for warning flags: Most beach accesses have signs posted that explain what each beach warning flag signifies flying at the beach, such as purple warning swimmers of dangerous marine life, like jellyfish, and yellow for a medium hazard, which means to be cautious for things like rip currents. If you venture into the water when either of these flags are flying, be aware of your surroundings.

Do not swim near fishing piers: Swimming and surfing is prohibited within 75 yards of piers in the City of Myrtle Beach. For your own safety, it’s not something you want to do. Pier fishing attracts aquatic animals, like sharks, so it’s best to keep your distance.

Watch weather and surf reports: Make sure you take a look at your weather app of choice before you head to the beach. Afternoon storms in our area can pop up quickly, so pay attention to dark clouds forming and check your app often. Lightning and water do not mix, so if you hear thunder, lightning is not far behind, and you need to get out of the water and take cover until the storm passes.

Educate yourself: Finally, if you really want to bolster your safety net, it may be a good idea to enroll in classes before your Myrtle Beach vacation, such as swimming lessons for your children to know the basics and CPR for the entire family for emergency situations.

Splash Safe Year Round With Swim Lessons From YMCA of Coastal Carolina or City of Myrtle Beach:

Throughout the year, the YMCA of Coastal Carolina and the City of Myrtle Beach offers swim lessons for infants, kids, teenagers and adults. No matter your expertise, everyone can learn how to be a better swimmer. More information can be found at CoastalCarolinaYMCA.org/swim-lessons or MyrtleBeachPRST.com/swimming_lessons_.php  

YMCA of Coastal Carolina Teaches 1,000 Kids to Swim for Free with Splash Safe Challenge:

The YMCA of Coastal Carolina is hosting a “Splash Safe Challenge” this summer to provide 1,000 free swim lessons to youth throughout Horry, Georgetown and Williamsburg counties. Members of the community can donate to the Splash Safe Challenge by visiting https://givebutter.com/splashsafe.

By keeping these safety tips in mind, you can ensure that your time in Myrtle Beach is filled with fun, relaxation, and peace of mind. Whether you're soaking up the sun, splashing in the waves, or enjoying a leisurely swim, your safety and well-being are our top priorities. So, pack your sunscreen, stay hydrated, and be mindful of the beach rules. We look forward to seeing you enjoy all the beautiful experiences Myrtle Beach has to offer!

Thank you to our sponsors!