One of my favorite things to do on a warm summers day is to take a well deserved break to the beach to relax in the sun. No matter what mood I'm in the sound of the crashing waves has a calming effect on me that brings a peace beyond imagination like being swept away into paradise.

I love the sun, the sand and the water. But while that is all lovely, the beach can be a hazard zone if you are not prepared. To ensure your safety at the beach always remember to follow a few simple safety tips so your day at the beach can be a fun time for you, your friends, and family.

Upon entrance to the beach read and obey the safety signs. The signs will tell you where the safest spots are to swim and will point out any potential hazards on the beach.

Protect your feet from the hot sand.  Wear flip flops or other beach shoes.

Always swim near a lifeguard where you can be noticed if something should happen. This is especially so if you have children.

Check the area for broken glass and other sharp objects that may be hidden in the sand. Your bare feet will love you for it.

Slop on the sunscreen. Choose a sunblock with titanium dioxide or zinc oxide. These are the ingredients that will block both the ultraviolet-B (UVB) and ultraviolet-A (UVA) rays. Most sunscreen lotions only block UVB rays so read the ingredients carefully. Also choose an SPF of 15 or higher. Children should be using an SPF of at least 40. Reapply your sunscreen every two hours. Even people who don't burn are at risk for developing skin cancer (melanoma).

Take extra protection between 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. when the sun is most intense. When I was a kid my mother didn't have to worry as much as parents do today because the ozone layer hadn't thinned out yet like it has today. Take extra protection with hats, shirts and umbrella's during the hottest hours. Take advantage of the shade whenever you can.

It's important to protect your eyes. Sunglasses are like sunscreen for your eyes. You will need a pair of sunglasses with protection built into the lenses that absorb at least 90% of the UV sunlight.

Children need to be carefully supervised by an adult at all times. Don't leave it up to the lifeguard to watch your children. I know it is exhausting trying to keep an eye on your children all day long. Anyone can grab a child in moments without you even noticing. Bring a friend along who will help you out so you can take a break throughout the day. If you have children who don't know how to swim do not allow them to go out beyond their knees. Teach them or get them to swimming lessons as soon as you can. It only takes a second for a child to drown. It happened in my family to my cousins child while mom was talking to the pool repairman. You can read about it here.

Never swim alone. Water conditions can be unpredictable. If you get in trouble wave your hand in the air and yell for help.

Never rescue anyone on your own. Tell the lifeguard. If there are no lifeguards on duty get on your cell phone and call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.

Have plenty of water handy or fluid that doesn't cause dehydration. The sun and wind can dehydrate even if it's not real hot. Drink often even if you're not thirsty.

Never drink alcohol and swim. The affect of alcohol will impair your better judgement and can lead you to unnecessary risk taking. If you must drink it's best to have your happy hour after you leave the beach.

Watch the tides direction and stay away from the rip currents. If you do happen to get caught in one don't panic and don't fight the current. You will only wear yourself out. Swim parallel to the beach until you no longer feel yourself being pulled. Tread water until someone comes to your rescue. 80% of lifeguard rescues and drowning deaths are due to rip currents. Now that is something to pay attention to. It's best to stay away from them.

Stay away from sharks. Of course you will. But still do not wear shiny jewelry or swim at dusk or the sharks may not stay away from you.

Don't bring anything of value with you to the beach. There are people who come to the beach to make you a victim of crime. Leave your valuables in the car, at home, or in your hotel room.

Preplan and have your medication with you if you have sever allergies, have a heart condition, are asmatic, or diebetic. Beware of medications that cause sun sensitivity.