The Lifeguard Mantra of Beach Safety

“Beaches in San Diego are quite safe,” says Capt. Rick Wurts of San Diego’s Lifeguard Service.  To make sure they stay that way, he offered some advice to visitors and locals alike.  “We call it our mantra of standard good practice,” he says.

First, always go to a beach where a lifeguard is on duty.  Although our town boasts many little beaches and coves unknown to most visitors, Rick cautions that unfamiliarity can be dangerous.

As soon as you arrive at your chosen beach, and before you set up your “camp” for the day, talk to the lifeguard about the safest place to swim or surf.  That way, you only have to spread out your blanket and picnic once.

Rip currents, caused by troughs in the ocean bottom, lurk at every beach.  And those dangerous currents are always found next to a jetty or pier.  “Avoid them by swimming elsewhere,” Rick says.  The lifeguard will point out the dangerous and safe locations for enjoying the water.

Children love to play in and near the shore, and they quickly become involved in their games and forget to pay attention to their surroundings.  Be sure you show your children where to stay.  “It’s a good idea for supervising adults to be down near the water,” Rick says.  “Things can happen quickly.” And stay in an area where you can touch bottom, too, unless you are a strong swimmer, he says.

“Enjoy our beaches,” Rick encourages.  “Just pay a bit of attention and you’ll have a great time.”