Beach Safety at the Jersey Shore

Strong, narrow channels of water flowing away from shore. The leading beach hazard.

• ✓Look for choppy, discolored water flowing seaward
• ✓If caught, stay calm and swim parallel to shore
• ✓Never fight the current - let it carry you, then swim sideways
• ✓Raise your hand if you need help - lifeguards watch for this

Sea nettles and other jellyfish are common in mid-to-late summer.

• ✓Watch for purple flag warnings indicating jellyfish present
• ✓If stung, rinse with seawater (not fresh water)
• ✓Remove tentacles with a credit card, not bare hands
• ✓Seek medical help for severe reactions or stings to face/throat

Sunburn and heat exhaustion are extremely common at the shore.

• ✓Apply SPF 30+ sunscreen 15 minutes before sun exposure
• ✓Reapply every 2 hours and after swimming
• ✓Seek shade during peak hours (10am-4pm)
• ✓Stay hydrated - drink water regularly

Ocean conditions change daily. Always check flags and swim near lifeguards.

• ✓Green flag = calm, Yellow = moderate, Red = high hazard
• ✓Never swim alone or outside guarded areas
• ✓Children should always be within arm's reach
• ✓Respect posted warnings and lifeguard instructions