Myrtle Beach
You will enjoy Myrtle Beach! Whether it's your first visit to Myrtle Beach or one of many, we want your time along the Grand Strand to be memorable. Here are some beach tips for safe swimming, sun protection, and lifeguards.
Enjoy your stay at Myrtle Beach along the Grand Strand. We hope you’ll find this information both informative and helpful.
Safe Swimming
Through the Swim Safe program, local communities offer 10 safety tips for ocean swimmers:
1. Swim in areas with a lifeguard
2. Swim with a buddy
3. Swim sober
4. Don't fight the current (signal for help!)
5. Don't float where you can't swim
6. Watch small children closely
7. Don't dive into the surf (protect your neck!)
8. Leash your boogie board or surfboard
9. Ask a lifeguard about ocean water conditions
10. Look for, read, and obey all beach safety flags (yellow, lifeguard on duty; blue, aquatic danger; red, no swimming allowed)
Sun Protection
Don't let a sunburn spoil your vacation. The sun will burn you faster than you think. Please be very careful.
1. Use sunscreen with a high SPF, and apply 30 minutes before exposure to the sun, then reapply after swimming, physical activity, or prolonged time in the sun.
2. Wear a hat and swimsuit cover-up (or T-shirt) for added protection.
3. Avoid the midday sun.
4. Don't fall asleep while sunbathing.
5. Beware of cloudy days, because burning rays penetrate clouds.
6. Severe sunburns should be treated by a physician and may require special medication to reduce pain and swelling (if in doubt, consult a physician or hospital emergency department).
Lifeguards
Lifeguards are on duty along many Grand Strand beaches during the summer months. Inexperienced swimmers or families with children should make sure the beach area they visit is staffed by a lifeguard. Other pointers: don't swim alone; if you encounter a riptide (a strong current that can pull you away from shore), yell for help, and begin swimming parallel to the beach until you are free from the current's pull.
Jellyfish Stings
Most vacationers never experience a jellyfish sting, but if you or someone in your group is stung, follow these instructions: *immediately scoop up some sand and rub it on the sting underwater to wash away any remaining nettles; then apply plain meat tenderizer, vinegar, or alcohol to neutralize most of the toxins; finally, wash the area with soap and fresh water. If the sting is severe, consult a physician or hospital emergency department. If there is an allergic reaction, call 911 immediately.
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