Tragic water accidents happen quickly and the most common reason for aquatic mishaps is a lack of safety knowledge. The Asbury Park Fire Department encourages all residents to follow these beach and water safety tips for a safe swimming season:
- Learn to swim; swim near a lifeguard; and never swim alone
- Supervise children closely, even when lifeguards are present
- If caught in a rip current, swim sideways until free and don't swim against the current's pull. Stay at least 100 feet away from piers and jetties. Rip currents often exist along the side of fixed objects in the water.
- Remember: alcohol and swimming don't mix
- Don't dive into unfamiliar waters feet first to protect your head, neck and spine
- No glass containers at the beach - broken glass and bare feet don't mix
- No beach bon fires except in designated areas with a permit - fire residue and superheated sand can severely burn bare feet
- Stay clear of jetty rocks, they are a major slip hazard
- Report hazardous conditions to lifeguards
- If you are in trouble, call or wave for help
For more safety tips and information on rip currents, visit: https://www.usla.org/page/ripcurrents or https://www.weather.gov/safety/ripcurrent
