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For the native and tourist alike, time spent at the beach can be some of the most fun and relaxing time we enjoy all year. But beaches have many dangers that are not always readily apparent, and which could spoil a vacation and lead to serious injury.  The Spivey Law Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, PA, has represented some victims of vacation blunders, and has compiled some tips to remember during your free summer days. 

If out for a little adventure along the beach, be careful that it does not turn into misadventure. Many Floridians like to exercise along the beach in order to enjoy the lovely breeze offered by the ocean shore, and seize an opportunity to get some sun. However, there are roughly 600,000 bicycling accidents a year and 100,000 inline skating accidents a year on boardwalks across the country. According to the Florida Highway and Motor Vehicles Safety 2010 Report, there were 4,925 bicycle accidents that year. Our Fort Myers personal injury attorneys remind everyone that wearing helmets and all appropriate safety gear is crucial to minimizing the extent of injury from these accidents. Another good safety precaution is to always pass on the left and look out for fellow bicyclists and skaters. 

A common boardwalk and beach hazard is what lies underfoot. Sharp objects such as broken glass or shells can easily cut feet when walking around barefoot or in flip-flops. Even more so, shoes will not be of much help to avoid stepping on the all too common jellyfish or stingray while in the water. To avoid a painful sting from either creature, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration suggests be aware of your surroundings and shuffle your feet as you wade into the water; this will hopefully alert the critters that they need to move or be stepped on. 

Some Reminders for Safe Swimming  

The Red Cross reminds us each summer of certain rules to abide by when hitting the beach, and especially when venturing out in the ocean for a swim. First, be sure everyone who is heading to the water knows how to swim. Second, even for those strong swimmers it is smart to never swim alone, and be sure you do not swim out too far as you need to ensure you have enough energy to swim back to shore. Moreover, be sure to check the weather and water reports before diving in. The ocean is a fluctuating source, and every year rip currents are responsible for the deaths of beachgoers across the nation. The Red Cross reminds swimmers to never fight against rip currents, but instead swim parallel to the shore until free. Lastly, always swim sober. In fact, staying sober at the beach is a good idea in general; alcohol can intensify the sun's dehydrating effects and increase the risk of heat exhaustion or heat stroke. When going to the beach for any extended time period, be sure to bring water and/or sports drinks to stay hydrated. If dizziness, nausea, or muscle cramps start to set in, seek some air conditioning inside; they are the beginning symptoms of heat exhaustion.

Floridians are lucky to live in a beach paradise. However, it is still important to ensure safety is a priority on every list for vacation, or a simple Friday off at the beach. If you have been injured or suffered any harm from an incident on your vacation or perhaps at a summer party, contact Fort Myers personal injury attorney Randall Spivey at the Spivey Law Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.A., for a consultation.