A day at the beach including swimming can be the greatest fun for all ages but can also turn into the biggest disaster if it’s not done responsibly. Here are a few thoughts: Make sure your children take swimming lessons. Swim only in designated areas where there are lifeguards present. Never swim alone. If you are the parent or guardian, the child’s safety is YOUR responsibility. Never trust a child, lifeguard, or any other individual to take it on for you. It’s yours. Leave your phone in your bag. Establish rules and boundaries for the kids so you can watch them easier. Young children or inexperienced swimmers should wear coast guard approved life jackets…but don’t rely on them. Don’t let the kids play any unsafe games in or near the water, including diving, jumping into the water, holding breath games, etc. Inflatables and other water toys are not life saving devices. Parents and kids digging holes in the sand and building sand castles, never allow them to dig deep holes or tunnels, especially near water lines (area where waves come in) and fill in holes when you are done. Let’s all please have a safe and enjoyable summer. We are proud of our lifeguard staff and safety programs and are here to help, but it starts with you. Please watch your kids!