How an ER Doctor Avoids Beach Emergencies

Heading to the shore means jumping waves, building sandcastles—and avoiding the risks that come with strong currents, heat exposure, and marine life.

“A day at the beach is like a hike in the woods,” says Christopher Tedeschi, MD, a Columbia emergency medicine physician. “It’s a great prescription for mental and physical health, but you want to make sure you and your family take a few precautions.”

Dr. Tedeschi, who specializes in wilderness medicine, wants families to fully enjoy the outdoors—while preparing for hazards that could interrupt the fun. “In the vast majority of cases, the best approach to possible beach emergencies is preventing them.”

What are the top health risks of going to the beach?

Heading to the beach requires paying attention to ocean conditions, specifically rip currents. The leading cause of rescues and drownings at beaches worldwide, rip currents are fast-moving channels of water that can pull swimmers away from shore quickly, even in otherwise calm conditions. “Here in New York City, we have some really dangerous rip currents,” he says.

Beach time also involves increased risk of sun and heat exposure, such as sunburn, heat stroke, heat exhaustion, and dehydration. “Any of these can exacerbate chronic illnesses, too,” Dr. Tedeschi says.

Going barefoot in the sand could result in cuts and scrapes from sharp objects, such as rocks, shells, or broken glass.

Additional risks include encounters with marine life, including jellyfish, stingrays, or urchins, depending on where you swim. Though rare, shark attacks can also occur. “Especially with warming waters, we’re seeing more human-shark interactions,” says Dr. Tedeschi.

What are the best ways to prevent health emergencies at the beach?

Enjoy the outdoors and stay out of the ER by keeping the following points in mind:

• Swim near lifeguards: “Especially with young children, always swim under the supervision of a lifeguard,” says Dr. Tedeschi. “They are well trained, and they know the current, local water conditions.”
• Spot and avoid rip currents: “The best way to reduce the risk of rip currents is to avoid swimming when they are present,” says Dr. Tedeschi. “Pay attention to signs or warnings, and you can always ask a lifeguard about possible rip currents if you’re unsure.”
• Protect against sun and heat exposure: Diligent application of sunscreen (at least SPF 30) is the first line of defense against burns. “UV light can do a lot of damage,” says Dr. Tedeschi. “Pack hats and proper sunglasses, and remember that although it might be overcast, or near the end of the day, you’re still exposed to UV rays.” Also, learn to recognize and treat signs of heat-related illness, like heat exhaustion and heat stroke. “I love beach umbrellas,” adds Dr. Tedeschi. “They’re easy for young kids to spot, and they provide important shade.”
• Avoid drinking alcohol: It might be tempting to have a couple of cold beers at the beach, but Dr. Tedeschi cautions against this. “It makes you more dehydrated, it increases your risk of heat stress, and you shouldn’t be swimming when impaired.”
• Keep eyes on kids: Parents can get distracted, so keeping young kids close on a crowded beach, swimming near lifeguards, and avoiding rough surf or strong current are even more important. “Big waves are powerful. They can easily knock over little kids,” says Dr. Tedeschi.
• Know your limits: A good way to approach any outdoor experience is with a little humility. “Sometimes, we overestimate our abilities. We think we’re a good climber or a good swimmer, and we take risks that end in avoidable tragedy,” says Dr. Tedeschi.

How should jellyfish stings—and other marine life injuries—be treated?

Because injuries can come from a range of marine animals, Dr. Tedeschi shares ways to treat stings and bites—and minimize encounters in the first place.

• Jellyfish: If you’re stung by this common sea creature, do not rinse the sting area with fresh water. Jellyfish leave small cells called nematocysts on your skin, and nematocysts “spring open like a coil” when they come in contact with fresh water, Dr. Tedeschi explains. Instead, irrigate the sting area with seawater and scrape off the nematocysts with a credit card, he advises.
• Stingray: A stingray encounter calls for a different response. “In addition to a toxin, stingrays can leave a barb, which can lead to infection.” Rinse the area with fresh water and bring the victim to an emergency room for examination. “Sometimes, you need an x-ray to make sure all of the barb has been removed.” Avoid stepping on a stingray in the first place with the ‘stingray shuffle,’ says Dr. Tedeschi. “Shuffle your feet along the ocean floor instead of stepping. The idea is to alert the stingray to your presence and give them time to move away.”
• Shark attack: Though rare, severe injuries can occur, and knowing how to respond can save a life. “In the rare case of a shark attack, the very first thing you need to do is stop severe bleeding,” Dr. Tedeschi says. He highlights the importance of learning basic bleeding control techniques, especially in places where emergency response may be delayed.

What should you pack in a beach first aid kit?

“When I put together a medical kit, I think about what’s the most common thing that’s going to happen, and what’s the worst thing that’s going to happen?” says Dr. Tedeschi.

Most beach injuries—like bumps, scratches, and sunburns—are minor and easily treated. So a basic kit with bandages, tweezers, antibiotic ointment, and pain relievers is usually sufficient.

For some beachgoers, planning for more serious emergencies may also include packing an EpiPen for severe allergies, especially in more remote settings.

The bottom line is to be mindful of risks, while also embracing the fun and relaxation a day at the beach has to offer.  “Whatever precautions you take, continue to enjoy the outdoors,” says Dr. Tedeschi. “As someone who specializes in wilderness medicine, I believe everybody needs the natural world.”