Beach Safety Tips for Ocean City, MD
As the end of summer and the Labor Day holiday weekend approaches, lifeguards will soon vacate their posts at the OCMD beaches. If your family plans to swim, it’s time to be extra watchful. The Grand Hotel on Ocean City, MD’s Boardwalk has these beach safety tips to make sure safety is first and fun can follow!
Resources For a Safe Vacation in OCMD
Know What to Do in a Rip Current
First, familiarize yourself and your family with how a rip current pulls swimmers out into the ocean. Then, use the Town of Ocean City’s photo depictions or videos to show how to exit a rip current by swimming parallel and slowly edging toward the beach. Before getting into the water, ask other beachgoers nearby if they’ve noticed a rip current that day — friendly OCMD locals are happy to warn anyone on the beach if they’ve noticed rip conditions!
Swim in Groups and Take Turns Supervising
Even if lifeguards are available, at least one adult in your party should be on “duty” at all times to watch any children. Be clear about when you are passing the torch to take a break. Consider taking children with you for a time-out from swimming at one of the Grand Hotel’s restaurants or on the Boardwalk.
Use Safety Gear
Anyone of any age who is still building strength in their swimming skills can benefit from a life jacket or another floatation device, which can often be rented from local businesses. Exhaustion can also be dangerous in the water. Use sun protection, hydrate frequently, and return to the Grand Hotel to cool off and take a breather when needed.
Familiarize Yourself with Your Location
Always be aware of what street is closest to you or what landmarks are nearby, such as the beautiful facade of the Grand Hotel. Make sure children can recognize your hotel, if it’s nearby. In case of an emergency or if one of your family members gets lost, this information will be needed. Take a picture on your phone to help you remember, and be sure to tell everyone in your party. Know where the nearest First Aid Kit is (even if it’s at your hotel) and who to call in an emergency.
Watch the Weather
Even when the weather conditions are not ideal, you can still have a lot of fun on the beach! Just be wary of thunderstorms and lightning, and exit the beach if you see either. Thankfully, if you stay at The Grand Hotel, the comfort of your room or Scoops Ice Cream will be just steps away!
There’s plenty of time to enjoy sunny days on the beach this year! Book your visit to Ocean City, MD’s Grand Hotel today!