However, local instructions always take priority.
If lifeguards tell everyone to move away from the waterline, then people should follow that direction even if they don’t understand exactly what’s happening.
The lifeguards may be responding to a developing situation that isn’t obvious to beachgoers.
Why Parents Should Pay Particular Attention
When you’re at the beach with children, a sudden warning deserves immediate attention.
Children don’t always recognize danger.
A child may see the ocean and think:
“Everyone else is swimming, so why can’t I?”
They may not understand that a small transparent animal floating nearby could cause a painful sting.
They may also be tempted to walk into shallow water because they believe the warning only applies to deeper areas.
That’s why parents should avoid turning the situation into a debate.
If lifeguards say to stay out of the water, stay out.
If they ask people to move away from the shoreline, move away.
