Keeping safe at the beach

Everything from getting bit by a shark to losing a child are potential problems when heading to the beach.  There’s plenty to be aware of, especially now that we’re hitting the peak of the summer. 

Wesley Cox, Manager of the Lack’s Beach Service, is in charge of overseeing lifeguards across much of Myrtle Beach.  He says one of the biggest things for people to be aware of when making a trip to the beach is to have a plan of action.  Too many times, he’s seen kids get lost and jellyfish stings.  When an emergency happens, Cox and his team of lifeguards carry a defined attitude.

“The main thing for us is to stay calm and keep the situation as calm as possible.  The last thing you wanna do is have the whole beach in a uproar.“

Cox says people should never be shy about asking the lifeguards about rip currents and what to do if you’re caught in one.  They have different colored flags, red, blue and yellow. Red is for no swimming conditions, blue is for dangerous fish nearby, and yellow is to use caution, even with good conditions.

Cox also says there’s an ordinance in place here in Myrtle Beach where you can only walk as far out into the ocean as to where the water hits your chest.

Another big ordinance that worries Cox and his team of lifeguards is the prohibited use of alcohol on the beach.  He says when people drink it’s not a matter of if, but when an incident will occur.  And as far as getting bit by a shark.

“The statistics I’ve seen and heard is you’re more likely to be struck by lightning.  The waters we have out here, we have very non-aggressive sharks.  The ones that we do have are relatively small.  Unlike the West Coast where they have the bigger aggressive sharks.  I’d stay more concerned about the jellyfish and stepping on a sting ray.“

The lifeguard stands are all stocked with a water and vinegar mix to treat any jellyfish stings.

Myrtle Beach lifeguards are on duty from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. everyday.