When it comes to heading off abroad on a long-awaited beach break with your family, the chances are that all you’re thinking about is relaxing and getting away from the stresses and strains of daily life. 

 

While it’s great to switch off, when it comes to heading off abroad, it’s important to ensure that you keep safety at the forefront of your mind at all times, especially if you are travelling with young children. 

 

Bearing that in mind, below are some useful tips and pieces of advice for staying safe while heading off on a beach break. 

 

Be mindful of valuables

 

When you’re on the beach, often you leave your valuables unattended. You can’t watch your stuff all the time, can you? Not if you want to be splashing in the sea, building sandcastles, or relaxing in the sun while immersing yourself in a book. However, you can take steps to protect your belongings and ensure that you reduce your risk of being targeted by thieves. 

 

Wherever possible, don’t take expensive items to the beach. If you have to take them with you, be discreet about it. Don’t flash them about. To safely store your items while you’re in the sea, why not buy a beach caddy that comes with a lock? That way, you can keep your valuables – cameras, smartphones, wallets, and jewellery – that bit safer. 

 

Be careful of the sea

 

Playing in the sea can be a lot of fun, but it’s important to always be alert while you’re in the sea – remember, the sea can be dangerous. It’s important that if you and your family choose to go in the sea, that everyone – including the kids – can swim. If they can’t, book them swimming lessons before your trip – Seriously Fun offer swimming lessons with a twist, perfect for kids who need to build confidence. 

 

As well as ensuring everyone can swim, make sure little ones wear life jackets at all times. Never let anyone – adult or child – lay on an inflatable in the sea. If the wind catches them, they could get swept away with a current. If you’re using an inflatable, have it on a string, to ensure no one drifts away. Wherever possible, always swim on a lifeguarded beach. 

 

Know how to get help

 

Most importantly, wherever you are – be it abroad or in the UK – be aware of where you can get help, should you need it. Memorise the numbers for local emergency services and other people who can help, should you need it.