The beaches in Andalucía, Spain are generally considered to be safe. This is largely due to the regular cleaning and maintenance carried out by the Junta de Andalucía, the body responsible for keeping the beaches of The Costa Tropical as attractive and as welcoming as possible for the thousands of visitors it receives every year; in the height of summer the beaches are swept every night.
There is no tide to speak of in the Mediterranean Sea, thus making it extremely safe to swim in. There are beaches, however, where the tide can become quite high. If this is the case, red flags will be flown warning people not to swim, to avoid the possibility of being swept away by the strong undercurrents. Occasionally, in the height of summer, some beaches in the Province of Granada suffer from jellyfish problems. To combat the problem the Ministerio de Medio Ambiente will be advising people on the state of the waters throughout Spain, by publishing reports on their website. The intention is to send boats out daily to remove the jellyfish from further out to sea before they have a chance to reach the shoreline.
Jellyfish stings come from the alkali-based venom emitted from the long tentacles that trail from the jellyfish. In worst case scenarios the most dangerous reaction to a jellyfish sting is a severe allergic reaction. Thankfully most stings can be treated by simply applying vinegar to the affected area after washing it with salt water, thus neutralising the toxin fairly rapidly. Should further discomfort remain, Ibuprofen is recommended. Due to its proximity to Africa, the sun in Andalucía is especially strong and great care should be taken to protect the skin from over exposure. Scientific reports have suggested that a limited amount of unprotected sun exposure may be recommended in order for our bodies to produce a sufficient amount of Vitamin D, however to fulfil this requirement, it should be remembered that only a few minutes of early morning or late afternoon exposure is necessary. With this in mind, it is strongly recommended that a sunscreen is used at all times. Choosing a sunscreen with a high SPF factor will extend the amount time one is able to remain in the sun without burning. Children are particularly at risk of sunburn and should be encouraged to wear a hat at all times. Cool, cotton or linen clothing is recommended or, for even better protection; there are now all in one, cover up swimsuits on the market with an ultra violet protection factor of 50+. Also available are sunscreen products that need be applied only once a day. Whilst these can be more expensive, they are particularly good for young children, or indeed adults, who are in and out of the water all day. Seeking shade between 11am and 3pm, either under a parasol or taking a leisurely lunch at a local beach restaurant, followed by a siesta is the perfect way to avoid the potentially harmful midday sun.
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