Beachgoers urged to take precautions as dangerous heat grips the coast

TYBEE ISLAND, Ga. (WTOC) - An Extreme Heat Warning is in effect, prompting safety precautions for both beachgoers and lifeguards on Tybee Island.

Anyone who has to be outside should plan ahead, stay in the shade as much as possible, take frequent breaks in air conditioning, and wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.

WTOC meteorologist Andrew Gorton said extreme heat is one of the deadliest types of weather in the United States because it can overwhelm the body faster than people realize. He advises drinking water before heading out and adding electrolytes to replace what is lost through sweat.

“If you want to have a good time on the beach, with every drink you have, make sure that you’re kind of countering that with water, with, you know, your favorite sports drink, things like that,” Gorton said. “They make powders for water these days, too, that work well. So, I’d recommend that.”

UV index values are at extreme levels, increasing the risk of sunburn. Beachgoers are advised to reapply sunscreen regularly and to wear a long-sleeve shirt, glasses, a hat, and sunscreen with an SPF of at least 50.

Ocean Rescue monitoring lifeguards

Tybee Island Ocean Rescue is also taking steps to protect its own lifeguards during the extreme heat warning. Roving supervisors are being deployed throughout the day to monitor lifeguard conditions in addition to standard tower staffing.

Those supervisors have the authority to pull a lifeguard from a tower, rotate them to another position, or assist with cooling them down if needed. They are also responsible for providing water and food, and for recognizing signs of heat stress, exhaustion, or other medical issues.

“Our beach manager and our supervisors are also in charge of scheduling proper times for our lifeguards to rotate properly to make sure that they do cool down and they can recover if needed,” said Tadd Rubin, Captain of Operations for Tybee Island Ocean Rescue.