4 Tips for a Safe Summer on Tybee
Summertime is peak season on Tybee, a popular destination for family vacations complete with plenty of sunshine, sand and sea. Our coastal community is teeming with activity this time of year as visitors from all over the country and world make their way to this beautiful barrier isle. With ample opportunities for fun in the sun on and offshore, we want to ensure that your vacation goes as smoothly as possible. So, to help you make the most of your vacation, and avoid incident, here are four safety tips to keep in mind this summer on Tybee.
- Stay Hydrated
During the summer months, local weather can reach well into the 90s consistently. Combine that heat with the humidity, and you’re expected to sweat quite a bit, especially during outdoor activities. Ensure that you are properly hydrating throughout the day. Keep water on hand and strive to drink at least two liters a day, even when you’re not feeling thirsty. Also keep snacks on hand with a high water content like watermelon, cucumber and celery to contribute to your overall fluid intake.
- Wear Sunscreen
This one is a no-brainer, but it’s still worth including. Tybee benefits from beautiful sunny summer days, and while it may be obvious to wear sunscreen when the sun is out, you should also wear it on cloudy days as well. Clouds can block sunlight but they don’t block UV rays, which are the harmful rays that can cause sunburn and skin cancer. So, no matter the forecast, be sure to slap on some sunscreen. Go for SPF 30 or higher, and reapply after swimming. And please note, that while melanin provides some natural protection against UV rays, it is insufficient on its own. All people of all skin types should wear sunscreen, especially during the summer. And while you’re at it, spray on some insect repellent, too.
- Be Vigilant in the Water
From May to October, Tybee Island Ocean Rescue lifeguards monitor the beach during daylight hours, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t do your part to stay safe while swimming, surfing or engaging in other water activities. Supervise children at all times; wear life jackets during water sport activities like kayaking, jet skiing, and paddle boarding; avoid swimming more than 50 yards from the shore; and vacate the beach in the event of a thunderstorm. Also be careful of rip tides, currents of strong, fast-moving water, which are common on Tybee. Be sure to follow directions of lifeguards and keep your head on a swivel for dangers in the water.
- Plan Accordingly
Though the sunshine may be compelling, try not to engage in outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day, typically 2 to 4 p.m., so as to prevent heat exhaustion. There are several indoor attractions to enjoy on Tybee, like visits to the Tybee Post Theater or the Tybee Island Marine Science Center. You can also dine at any of our esteemed eateries during the afternoon heat as well. Opt for outdoor excursions in the morning, early afternoon or evening and plan indoor activities during peak heat times. By planning your day, you can beat the heat while maximizing fun.
