DAN GER S at Sea
if you go on holiday to the sea, you must be careful. And if the national seas afraid of sharp stones, broken bottles and other debris, the alien water dangers are much more. There are main dangers at sea: • Shorebreak • Lightning • Tsunamis • Sharks • Don’t swim too far from shore • Sunburn
Shorebreak • A shorebreak is an ocean condition when waves break directly on the shore. Shorebreaks are unpredictable and dangerous. They have caused many serious neck and spinal injuries to both experienced and inexperienced bodysurfers and swimmers. Both small and high surf can be equally as dangerous and can cause serious injury or death. Be sure to ask a lifeguard about the wave conditions at the beach.
Lightning • In the United States, an average of 62 people are killed each year by lightning. Already in 2008, 24 people have died due to lightning strikes. In 2007, lightning killed 45 people in the U. S, hundreds of others were injured. When thunder roars, go indoors! The safest place during lightning activity is a large enclosed building, not a picnic shelter or shed. The second safest place is an enclosed metal vehicle, car, truck, van, etc. , but NOT a convertible, bike or other topless or soft-top vehicle. Wait 30 minutes until after the last thunder crack before going back to the beach.
Tsunamis • A tsunami is a series of ocean waves generated by sudden displacements in the sea floor, landslides, or volcanic activity. The tsunami wave may come gently ashore or may increase in height to become a fast moving wall of turbulent water several meters high. Although we can’t prevent a tsunami, the effects can be reduced through community preparedness, timely warnings, and effective response.
Sharks • Shark attacks, though rare, are most likely to occur near shore, Typically inshore of a sandbar or between sandbars, where sharks can become trapped by low tide, and near steep drop offs where shark’s prey gather. The relative risk of a shark attack is very small, but the risks should always be minimized whenever possible.
Don’t swim too far from shore • Stay in groups – sharks are more likely to attack a solitary individual • Avoid being in the water during darkness or twilight when sharks are most active • Don’t go in the water if bleeding from a wound – sharks have a very acute sense of smell • Leave the shiny jewelry at home – the reflected light resembles fish scales • Avoid brightly-colored swimwear – sharks see contrast particularly well
Sunburn • Too much sun can spoil a vacation. And it can take up to 24 hours before the full damage is visible. The two most common types of burns are first degree and second degree burns. • First degree sunburns cause redness and will heal, possibly with some peeling, within a few days. These can be painful and are best treated with cool baths and bland moisturizers or over-the-counter hydrocortisone creams. • Second degree sunburns blister and can be considered a medical emergency if a large area is affected. When a burn is severe, accompanied by a headache, chills or a fever, seek medical help right away. Be sure to protect your skin from the sun while it heals. Common sense and a few simple precautions can help you and your family have a safe and healthy day at the sea.
1. What do you think, which of the above problems, is the most dangerous? 2. Have you ever been to the sea / lake / river? 3. How do you think what is the most dangerous place for swimming and relaxation? 4. What is the best place to stay by the sea?