No alerts in FL. Skies are clear – for now.
Live Streaming
Join Us

Beach Hazards

Table of Contents

Introduction

Hey folks, I’m Paramedic Mike. After nearly two decades of responding to emergencies on both land and water, I’ve seen firsthand how quickly a relaxing day at the beach can turn into a life-threatening emergency. From rip currents pulling swimmers out to sea, to powerful surf that causes spinal injuries, to sudden lightning strikes, “beach hazards” catch people off guard every summer.

The National Weather Service (NWS) and the U.S. Lifesaving Association recognize beach hazards as one of the most dangerous coastal threats. Each year, rip currents alone account for the majority of lifeguard rescues in the U.S., and most drownings occur at unguarded beaches.

This guide brings you the steps you need to prepare, recognize hazards early, and respond effectively if trouble strikes. My goal isn’t just to hand you a checklist—it’s to explain why these steps matter, based on real-world emergencies I’ve handled. Trust me—the ocean always deserves your respect.

Hazard Types

Rip Currents
Strong, narrow currents that pull swimmers away from shore.
High Surf / Large Waves
Powerful surf, shore break, and swells that can knock you down or cause serious injury.
Lightning at the Beach
Storms can roll in quickly; “when thunder roars, go indoors.”
Harmful Marine Life
Jellyfish, stingrays, sharks, and other marine creatures that can pose risks.
Water Quality Advisories
Bacteria and contaminant warnings after storms or sewage incidents.
Heat & Sun Exposure
Dehydration, heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and sunburn risks.

Preparation

Before the event

Preparation makes all the difference when it comes to beach safety. Here’s what to do before you even set foot on the sand:

  • Check the beach & surf forecast at weather.gov/beach.

  • Review the Rip Current Forecasts at weather.gov/safety/ripcurrent-forecasts.

  • Always swim near lifeguards—90% of rescues occur at unguarded beaches.

  • Learn the rip current escape plan: don’t fight the current, swim parallel to shore, then return in.

  • Make sure kids or weak swimmers wear Coast Guard-approved life jackets.

  • Learn the Beach Flag Warning System (official flag chart PDF).

  • Set family “buddy rules”—no one swims alone, everyone knows a meeting point.

  • Review lightning safety—if you hear thunder, get off the beach.

  • Bring medical supplies you might need (inhalers, epinephrine, etc.).

Checklist essentials

Official NWS Beach Forecast and Rip Current Outlooks
Coast Guard–approved life jackets
Sun protection (SPF 30+, hats, umbrellas/shade)
Plenty of water for hydration
First aid kit & emergency whistle
Beach warning flag chart
Buddy system plan / meeting point for your group

During the event

If a Beach Hazard Alert is Issued:

  • Rip Currents: Stay calm, float, wave for help, and swim parallel to shore until you escape the current (NWS Rip Current Survival Rules).

  • High Surf / Strong Waves: Stay out of the water. Powerful waves can knock you down or cause spinal injuries.

  • Lightning: Leave the beach at the first sign of thunder. Move to a fully enclosed building or a hard-topped vehicle.

  • Marine Life: Respect signage. For stings (jellyfish, stingray), treat with vinegar or hot water when appropriate and seek medical care.

  • Heat / Sun Exposure: Hydrate frequently, take shade breaks, and watch for heat stress symptoms.

  • Always obey lifeguards and posted flags—they are your frontline safety system.

After the event

Recovery matters as much as response:

  • Treat injuries, stings, or sunburns immediately; seek medical attention if necessary.

  • If you needed rescue, get checked by a doctor—even if you feel fine (secondary drowning can occur hours later).

  • Replace or refresh any used safety supplies.

  • Debrief with your group: what worked, what should improve.

  • Avoid unstable sand cliffs, erosion, or marked unsafe zones after storms.

Special Populations

Children

  • Children are at highest risk for drownings.

  • Use proper life jackets and keep them under constant “touch supervision.”

Older Adults

  • Greater risk of dehydration, heat illness, and balance issues in surf.

  • Prioritize hydration, shade, and close monitoring at the waterline.

People with Disabilities / Medical Needs

  • Bring all required health supplies (inhalers, epinephrine, oxygen, etc.).

  • Verify beach accessibility before arrival.

  • Ensure emergency contacts and action plans are shared with family/friends.

Businesses / Groups

  • Establish designated water watchers for group outings.

  • Review emergency meeting points and safety responsibilities.

Pets

  • Provide shade, water, and breaks.

  • Do not allow dogs in strong surf.

  • Watch closely for signs of heat stress; rinse off salt and sand after.

Quick Reference Tables

Beach Safety Flags
Flag Color Meaning Action
Green Calm conditions Swim with care, stay alert
Yellow Moderate hazard Stay near guards, caution
Red High hazard Stay out of water
Double Red Water closed Do not enter, fines possible
Purple Dangerous marine life Exercise caution

Full PDF: RipCurrentFlags

Rip Current Survival Steps

  • Don’t panic or try to fight the current.

  • Float to conserve energy and wave for help.

  • Swim parallel to shore to escape; then angle back in.

Emergency Phases
Phase Key Actions Priority Groups
Before Check forecasts, review escape plans, bring supplies Families with children, elderly, medical needs
During Follow lifeguards/flags; rip escape steps; lightning = leave beach Everyone, especially kids & weak swimmers
After Treat injuries; replace supplies; debrief; avoid unsafe terrain All groups
Population Safety Guide
Group Special Risks Key Protection Steps
Children Highest drowning risk Life jackets, supervision, guarded beaches
Seniors Heat, dehydration, balance issues Hydration, shade, assist at waterline
Medical Needs Triggers, meds, accessibility Bring supplies, plan for accessibility
Pets Heat stress, ingesting seawater/sand Provide shade/water, no rough surf, rinse off

Additional notes/thoughts

Taking Your Beach Safety to the Next Level

Before heading out, ask:

  • Is there a lifeguard on duty and what flag is flying today?

  • Have you checked today’s rip current, surf, lightning, and water quality forecasts?

  • Does everyone in your group know the rip current escape plan?

  • Do vulnerable family members (kids, seniors, medical needs) have special precautions ready?

  • Do you have enough water, shade, sunscreen, and first aid gear for the day?

Most emergencies at the beach happen to people who had no idea danger was developing. Knowledge, preparation, and using official resources are what keep a fun day at the beach from becoming a tragedy. Respect the ocean, trust the forecasts, and remember: your strongest lifeline is preparation.

References

National Weather Service:

Weather.gov Beach Warning Cheat Sheet: Beach Warning Flag PDF

United States Environmental Protection Agency: EPA Beach Water Quality

 

Image Credits

https://www.pexels.com/photo/dynamic-ocean-waves-with-turbulent-foam-32116774/

https://www.pexels.com/photo/viewing-deck-on-seashore-under-dark-clouds-8015502/

https://www.pexels.com/photo/men-sitting-on-white-folding-chair-bear-body-of-water-813462/

https://unsplash.com/photos/a-couple-of-yellow-signs-sitting-on-top-of-a-wooden-fence-vT48NTo9nps

You might want to read this: