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Beach Safety
Naturist beaches are no more dangerous than any other. However, because they tend to be more remote, if there are problems it may take longer for any help to arrive so it makes good sense to be more aware of safety issues.
Few naturist beaches have the benefit of lifeguards, so your safety - and that of your children - is your responsibility.
General Advice
- Keep an eye on your children - know where they are at all times.
- Keep clear of any cliff edges as they can be slippery when they get wet.
- Don't sit under cliff faces - in many places, rock falls can be frequent.
- Don't climb the cliffs - getting down is much harder than going up!
- If walking along the coast, don't get trapped by the tide.
- Check the weather and tides before you leave home.
Swimming
The sea is not a swimming pool.
Even a calm sea may hide powerful forces which can trap the unwary and safe places to swim can become dangerous if the sea is rough. If in doubt - stay out! If you can, seek local advice about swimming conditions.
Look out for the dangers:
- Waves can knock you over and hold you under the water.
- "Rips" and currents can take you out to sea. Calm water can mean strong currents.
- Nearby estuaries and rivers frequently give rise to dangerous sea currents.
- Rocks can be hidden under water. You can slip, fall and hurt yourself.
Good advice:
- Avoid swimming alone if possible.
- Always swim close to the beach in line with the shore.
- Don’t "drink and drown" - alcohol and seawater don't mix!
- Don't swim straight after a meal - you may get cramps while you’re in the water.
- Offshore winds can blow you out to sea - be especially careful with 'inflatables'
- Don't swim when a red flag is flying. (find out more about beach safety flags HERE)
Sun Safety
As a naturist, you want the warmth of the sun on your skin and an "all over" tan - but don't over do it!
- Don't get burnt - build up a protective tan gradually.
- Consider using a protective sun cream when necessary.
- If you're planning to stay all day, bring a sun shade for protection.
- It's not an offence to put on some clothes to cover up the vulnerable bits.
- Children are particularly vulnerable to sunburn - take special care of them.
In An Emergency
Know what to do if you see someone in difficulty in the water:
- Shout for help and tell a lifeguard if there is one.
- Go to the nearest phone and call 999 and ask for the coastguard.
- Do not enter the water to rescue anyone.
- When parking your car - don't obstruct access for the emergency services.
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Beaches 
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