The sun-drenched beaches of Alabama are attracting hordes of visitors, and with soaring temperatures, staying cool is no easy feat. In Orange Beach, vacationers are struggling to find respite from the scorching heat.
During his first visit to Orange Beach, Skyler Moore advised, “If you want to beat the heat, you either need to take a dip in the water or stay in the shade.”
According to Brett Lessinger of Orange Beach Surf and Rescue, the heat on the beach can be quite extreme. He notes that as soon as you step outside, you can feel the thickness of the air.
Daniel Moore from Knoxville, Tennessee advises that there are important things to keep in mind before heading to the beach, even for a relaxing day out.
Staying hydrated is important, so make sure to drink plenty of fluids. It’s also a good idea to bring canopies or umbrellas to shield yourself from the sun or rain.
As the temperatures reach the sweltering century mark, lifeguards at Orange Beach and Gulf Shores are handling an influx of heat-related emergencies. Recognizing the signs of such emergencies is relatively simple, according to Lessinger.
“If you experience a sudden stop in sweating, it could be a red flag for potential health issues. Other concerning symptoms may include headaches, nausea, and difficulty with memory recall.”
Taking a dip in the Gulf waters to beat the heat may seem like the obvious choice, but with temperatures hovering around 85 degrees, it may not provide the desired respite. However, according to lifeguards, even a slight relief is better than none. Lessinger explains, “While it may not be the coldest water around, it’s certainly cooler than the outside temperature.”
As we approach this time of the year, the high temperature is something we all expect, especially when we’re planning a day at the beach. However, it’s always a good idea to pack something extra with our standard beach gear to make the most of our beach experience.
Lessinger emphasizes the importance of shade in surviving outdoors, stating that lasting more than an hour without it is nearly impossible. He stresses that having some form or fashion of shade is crucial for survival.
