Charleston County Parks proclaims May 19-26 National Beach Safety Week

The Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission (CCPRC) issued a proclamation on Monday to proclaim May 19-26 National Beach Safety Week.

Charleston County beaches will soon become popular destinations for residents and visitors alike as summer returns. While our beautiful coastal and inland beaches represent a world-renowned recreational resource, the aquatic environment has inherent dangers and hazards, such as rip currents, of which the public should be aware and cautious.

CCPRC encourages beachgoers to enjoy themselves this year, while taking appropriate measures to protect themselves and their children. Beachgoers should follow the following tips, courtesy of the United States Lifesaving Association (USLA):

• Swim near a lifeguard when possible

Look for designated swim zones marked by lifeguard stands. Visit CharlestonCountyParks.com for a schedule of when lifeguards are on duty at CCPRC beach parks.

• Learn to swim

• Learn rip current safety

Rip currents can be identified by a narrow gap of darker, seemingly calmer water between areas of breaking waves and whitewater. There may be a line of foam or debris moving seaward. Swimmers caught in a rip current should try not to panic or swim against the current. The best way to escape is to swim parallel to the shoreline, then at an angle toward the beach. Wave to get the attention of a lifeguard for help. Read more on the USLA website: https://www.usla.org/page/safety-tips.

• Never swim alone

• Designate a “Water Watcher” to keep an eye on those in the water at all times
• Alcohol and water don’t mix
• Enter the water feet first

• Life jackets save lives

• Observe signs and flags

Obey all signage at the beach. Flags and Symbols used by CCPRC include:

• • Red over Yellow: Designated lifeguarded swimming area between flags.
  • Yellow: Use caution. Rough water or possible dangerous sea life.
  • Red: No swimming. Water is closed due to dangerous currents, severe storms, lighting or possible dangerous sea life.
  • Purple: Sea pests – a higher than normal number of dangerous marine animals are present (not intended to notify of the presence of sharks).
• Beat the heat and block the sun

In addition to the above, CCPRC also encourages the following safety tips:

• Stay at least 200 feet away when swimming near piers. Piers are common locations for rip currents.
• Seek shelter when lightning is in the area
• Take a photo of your group when you arrive, so if anyone were to get separated (child or adult) it could help aid in the search.

For more information on these tips and more information from the United States Lifesaving Association, visit https://www.usla.org/page/safety-tips. For more information on Charleston County Parks and its beach parks, visit CharlestonCountyParks.com or call 843-795-4386.

The mission of CCPRC is to improve the quality of life in Charleston County by offering a diverse system of park facilities, programs and services. The large park system features over 11,000 acres of property and includes six land parks, three beach parks, four seasonally-lifeguarded beach areas, three dog parks, two landmark fishing piers, three waterparks, 19 boat landings, a climbing wall, a challenge course, an interpretive center, an equestrian center, cottages, a campground, a marina, as well as wedding, meeting and event facilities. The park system also offers a wide variety of recreational services – festivals, camps, classes, programs, and more. For more information on CCPRC, call 843-795-4386 or visit charlestoncountyparks.com