Memorial Weekend in Galveston can be a real good time, especially when it comes to soaking up the sea and sun at one the local beaches. But with years of experience dealing with ER care, we know a lot can happen at the beach, especially when folks are blindsided by how powerful the water and sun can be. Here’s what you need to know to prepare.
5 Ways to Stay Out of the ER During Memorial Weekend in Galveston:
Do not let inexperienced swimmers into the water unaccompanied: Did you know that drowning is the third leading cause of accidental death in the United States and the second leading cause of accidental death for persons aged 5 to 44? If you’re visiting a Galveston beach with kids or adults who aren’t strong swimmers, never let them enter the water on their own. Even strong swimmers are safer swimming with a companion, so use the buddy system whenever possible. You can even have smaller children wear lifejackets to be extra safe.
Pick a beach with lifeguards and swim close to their post: Did you know you’re five times safer from drowning by swimming at a beach with lifeguards? If you have young children or family members who aren’t strong swimmers, Stewart Beach is a very family-friendly beach with lifeguards on duty.  Don’t be afraid to ask the lifeguards about rip currents, jellyfish, or simply to find out the safest spots to swim. Â
Use sunscreen and drink water: What’s a hundred times more important than bringing a beach blanket and towel to the beach? Your sunscreen and your water. We’ve seen many patients severely sunburned and dehydrated from failing to use sunscreen and not drinking enough liquids throughout the day. Too much exposure to the sun can also cause lifelong skin damage and skin cancer. Drinking alcohol in the heat can also lead to dehydration. Let a lifeguard know right away if you think someone is suffering from heat exhaustion or dehydration.
Pay Attention to Posted Signs and Flags: Read the beach’s warning signs when you first arrive and obey what they say. If there’s a possibility of rain or lightning, keep an eye on the lifeguard station to see if they raise any warning flags. Lifeguards typically advise beach visitors of any hazards and regulations. You can usually find informational signs explaining the meaning of the flags, or just ask the lifeguard on duty.
Act with Caution: To prevent serious, lifelong injuries, always enter the water feet first. Get to know how deep the terrain is before you decide to dive in head first. Finally, learn how to be safe when engaging in high-risk activities like surfing, bodysurfing, and skimboarding.
Spending Memorial Weekend in Galveston is so much better when everyone is safe and feeling great! Enjoy your weekend, Everyone!
Not sure what SPF is right for you or how to treat a sunburn? Read Hospitality Health ER’s blog to learn what SPF means or read our home remedies for treating sunburns.
