NEWBURY — Chief Douglas Janvrin and the Newbury Fire Department wish to share beach safety tips with the public this summer season.
Before heading out, beach goers should remember to use sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher, reapplying liberally every two hours on dry skin whenever you get out of the water. The sun’s UV rays are most hazardous between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., and overexposure to the sun can cause sunburns, premature aging of the skin and skin cancer.
Those who plan on swimming at Plum Island should be cognizant of rip currents, which can form in any large area of open water, particularly in low spots and breaks in sandbars.
“Newbury is fortunate to have beautiful beaches that everyone can visit and enjoy, and we want everyone to stay safe this summer while they do so,” Chief Janvrin said. “Always be aware of the weather and watch out for rip tides. Taking these simple steps can save a life.”
Chief Janvrin and the Newbury Fire Department advise residents to follow safety tips outlined by the American Red Cross:
- While you’re enjoying the water, keep alert and check the local weather conditions. Check to see if any warning flags are up or any notifications about potential hazards.
- Make sure you swim sober and that you never swim alone.
- If you’re supervising children who are swimming, do so sober and without distractions, such as a cell phone.
If you are caught in a rip current:
- Stay calm and don’t fight the current.
- Swim parallel to the shore until you are out of the current. Once you are free, turn and swim toward shore.
- If you can’t swim to the shore, float or tread water until you are free of the rip current and then head toward shore.
- If you feel you can’t make it to the shore, draw attention to yourself by waving and calling for help.
- If someone is in trouble in the water, call 911.Throw the victim something that floats – a life jacket, cooler, inflatable ball and yell instructions on how to escape the current.
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