Health Precautions to Take at the Beach

Nothing says summer fun like a family trip to the beach. The sun, the sand, the waves—it all adds up to a natural playground for people of all ages. To keep enjoying the beach, it's important to take a few health precautions.

Wear Sunscreen

Nothing will ruin a day at the beach more than a bad sunburn. In addition to the immediate discomfort, long-term exposure to UV rays can cause skin cancer. Use an SPF of 30 or higher and be sure to reapply after swimming. For people who forget, aloe can soothe and heal the skin. More severe burns may require a trip to a pharmacist for treatment.

Beware of Jellyfish

While most people are rightly afraid of sharks in the ocean, it's far more common that another creature will hurt you at the beach: jellyfish. Jellyfish are common in Florida, with dozens of species present near the beach. Be aware that they can be in the water and be on the lookout for them. In the event of a sting, remove the tentacles and apply hydrocortisone cream to soothe the pain. For run-ins with species like the Portuguese Man-Of-War, a trip to urgent care is advised.