This week on Jeju: A to Z, Todd Thacker takes a timely look at beach safety. This summer, millions of people will enjoy cooling off at Jeju’s many beaches. Here are some basic tips and precautions to keep in mind when you’re in the water.

The island’s beaches are now officially open for the summer season. Through August 31st, many additional services and facilities for swimmers and beachgoers will be available.

[Slug CG] Night hours (until 9PM) for Hyeopjae, Iho, Samyang, Hamdeok

For an entire month beginning July 15th, Hyeopjae, Iho, Samyang, and Hamdeok beaches will stay open until 9 p.m. And an extra 70 lifeguards have been assigned to 11 of Jeju’s most popular beaches during this time.

But even with the extra supervision, we mustn’t forget that this marine environment presents a certain amount of risk. So here are a few tips to keep in mind when you and your loved ones head to the shore this summer.

[Slug CG] www.kma.go.kr/eng/index.jsp

First off, it’s advisable to check the weather, UV levels, and tides by consulting your preferred weather app or news site. The Korea Meteorological Administration’s website has detailed information on many of Jeju’s beaches.

Bring hats, T-shirts and plenty of sunscreen to avoid the sun’s harmful rays and ensure you have plenty of drinking water to stay cool and hydrated.

[Slug CG] Supervised beaches, life jackets recommended

If you are out with inexperienced or younger swimmers, it’s best to stick to the supervised beaches with lifeguard stations and safety buoys. Also, make sure new swimmers wear life jackets in ? and around ? the sea. This is because even in shallow water a wave or current can cause you to lose your footing.

In the unlikely event that you or someone in your group finds themselves caught in a rip tide, rule No. 1 is to stay calm. Don’t fight the current but rather swim parallel to the shore until you are out of danger.

[Slug CG] Todd Thacker

And finally, while Jeju has some of the most pristine ocean in Korea, rising sea temperatures have meant that poisonous species of octopus and jellyfish have appeared recently. Please keep an eye out for these creatures and seek immediate medical treatment if stung.

We hope you have a spectacular ? and safe ? summer!

Todd Thacker KCTV