Julia Guerrero EDINBURG– With spring in full swing and summer just around the corner, beach season approaches making it key to know beach safety precautions. Sun, sand and relaxation are what people generally look for when going to the beach. Authorities stressed the importance of understanding safety precautions to have an enjoyable beach experience.
According to the National Ocean Service, rip currents, sand holes, water quality and marine life are some of the top ten dangers at the beach if precautions are not taken. Present lifeguard and former South Padre Island Beach Safety Technician Seth Sweeney said having a buddy, a float device and being mindful in the water key regardless of your level of swimming.
“Don’t overestimate yourself, in fact I think it’d be better to underestimate your abilities because the water is unpredictable,” Sweeney said.
South Padre Island Ocean Rescue Lieutenant Pedro Casillas said mobile patrols and lifeguards are seasonally stationed from March 1 to Dec. 1 as six tower locations on the beach.
The towers are located near Claytons Beach Bar, Wanna Wanna Inn, Coco Beach Hotel, Isla Grand and Sapphire Resort.
While lifeguards are on duty during the busiest times in the year, knowing how to get out of a tough situation is significant. Casillas said there are more rip current drownings than there are shark attacks in the world and knowing how to get out of one is lifesaving.
“Most importantly stay calm. You’re going to not want to fight the water,” Casillas said. “So, wherever the current takes you, go with it and swim parallel to the ocean until you stop feeling that tug and then you can make your way safely to shore.”
With the expected increase in visitors in the upcoming months, cautions for digging holes in the sand are important. Casillas said while digging holes can be fun, visitors should be cautious of depth and remember to fill them after.
He said we have narrow beaches on the island and need to keep a safe space for mobile units to patrol through. Casillas also reminded the number one tip for beach safety is prevention, so visitors should make sure to flag conditions.
Flags are located on each beach access and represent surf conditions and possible presence of marine life.
“It’s an ocean. There is a lot of marine life there, from dolphins to sharks, stingrays to jellyfish,” Casillas said. “So, as we all know it’s their home. We’re just there guests.”
Casillas reminded beach visitors if emergency services are needed to call 911.
