12 essential rules for a seaside getaway

Indulging in a vacation on the azure sea, white sandy beaches, and golden sunshine is a delightful experience on scorching summer days. However, for a safe journey, equip yourself with the necessary knowledge to protect against unexpected dangers.

1. Warm-up before entering the sea

The environment on land and underwater differs, so you need time to adapt. Prior to entering the sea, warm up your limbs, perform some exercises, or jog for a while to avoid cramps before immersing yourself in the water. However, don't overexert yourself and descend into the water slowly, avoiding a sudden plunge.

2. Avoid prolonged sun exposure

Intense sunlight is not good for your health. Therefore, don't sunbathe for too long before entering the water, as it may lead to a sudden cold.

3. Avoid swimming on an empty or full stomach

When heading to the beach, refrain from swimming with an empty or overly full stomach. It's advisable to have a light meal and bring along sweet treats, fruits, or canned goods, as swimming can deplete your energy.

4. Stay within a safe distance from the shore

Swimming too far from the shore exposes you to large waves and unforeseeable risks. Therefore, occasionally pay attention to what's behind you. The first dive shouldn't exceed 15 minutes. Avoid swimming more than 15m from the shore or in areas deeper than 5m.

5. Avoid beach activities on days with large waves

Avoid opting for beach travel or swimming in areas with strong currents, as they are very dangerous for swimmers. Stay informed about the weather, and check information about the beach in advance. Especially avoid swimming on days with large waves, stormy weather, or when the temperature is below 18°C. If you notice unusual calmness at the shoreline, water receding far away, and many seabirds flying restlessly, immediately head to higher ground or a hill.

6. Stay within designated safe zones while swimming

Typically, each beach has warning signs indicating deep or hazardous water areas. Adhere to the beach rules, avoid venturing too far from the safe zone to prevent difficulties in returning to shore, encountering aggressive marine life, or being swept away by strong waves.

7. Avoid piers and columns

In coastal cities, piers and mooring columns are often scattered. When swimming, steer clear of these areas as they harbor many soft-bodied marine creatures like jellyfish, which may pose a threat. In case of a jellyfish sting, head to shore immediately, rub with vinegar, and rinse with fresh water.

8. Steer clear of whirlpool areas

Beaches near urbanized coastal areas may have unexpected pits, trenches, and whirlpools. To escape these currents, remain calm and remember that offshore currents don't pull people to the bottom; they only carry objects away from the shore. Avoid swimming against the current; instead, swim perpendicular to it. For non-swimmers or those exhausted, float with the current, awaiting rescue.

9. Urgent shore retreat situations

Experiencing itching, feeling chilly, unusual fatigue, forehead or neck cramps, vision disturbances, signs of bloating, and pain in the elbows and knees require an immediate return to shore.

10. Always accompany at least two others

For safety, be cautious while swimming and avoid going too far from the shore. Always accompany at least 1-2 other individuals for increased safety and mutual assistance in case of emergencies.

11. Self-rescue techniques

Stay calm, close your eyes, hold your breath to prevent water intake, and transform your lungs into a buoyancy aid. Use your hands or legs as paddles, creating a water fan to lift your head above the water. With this method, you can survive underwater for an extended period, waiting for rescue or taking advantage of the current to swim to shallower areas.

12. Cases when swimming is not advisable

Individuals with bronchitis, asthma, tuberculosis, heart disease, kidney inflammation, chronic perforated eardrums, those sensitive to nervous stimulation, and those frequently averse to cold should refrain from swimming in the sea.

According to VnExpress

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Reference: Travel guide from Mytour