Sun, Sand and Stings: First Aid for Common Beach Injuries

Summer in Victoria means the smell of sunscreen, salt in the air, and that satisfying crunch of sand under your feet. Whether you’re heading down to Altona Beach, Williamstown, or further along the coast to Torquay or Lorne, the beach is the perfect place to unwind.

But even the most relaxing day can turn stressful when someone gets stung, burned, or cut. From bluebottles to blisters, most beach injuries are easy to manage if you know what to do in the first few minutes.

Here’s a practical guide to help you handle the most common problems at the beach, so you can get back to enjoying the sunshine safely.

1. Sunburn

It only takes minutes for UV rays to cause skin damage, especially between 10am and 3pm. The sun’s reflection off sand and water makes the risk even higher.

What to do:

1. Move out of the sun immediately.
2. Cool the skin with a damp cloth or take a cool (not cold) shower.
3. Apply aloe vera or after-sun lotion to soothe the area.
4. Drink plenty of water to rehydrate.
5. Do not pop blisters or apply ice, butter, or oils.

If the burn is severe, covers a large area, or causes fever or chills, see a doctor.

Prevention tips:

• Use SPF 50+ sunscreen, applied 20 minutes before going outside and reapplied every two hours.
• Wear a hat, sunglasses, and UV-protective clothing.
• Use shade tents or umbrellas during peak sun hours.
  
  

2. Jellyfish and Bluebottle Stings

Bluebottles are common along Victorian beaches, particularly on windy days. Their tentacles can still sting even after washing ashore.

What to do:

1. Rinse the sting with seawater (not freshwater).
2. Gently remove any tentacles using tweezers or the edge of a card.
3. Immerse the affected area in hot water (as hot as can be tolerated) for 20 minutes or apply a heat pack.
4. If pain persists, apply a cold pack after the hot water treatment.
5. For severe pain, nausea, or breathing difficulty, call Triple Zero (000) immediately.

Avoid rubbing the sting or using vinegar on bluebottle stings, as this can make the pain worse.

3. Cuts and Scrapes from Shells or Rocks

It’s easy to step on sharp shells, glass, or rocks, especially when wading through shallow water. Even small cuts can become infected from saltwater and sand if not cleaned properly.

What to do:

1. Rinse the wound with clean water or saline.
2. Remove any sand or debris.
3. Apply antiseptic and cover with a waterproof dressing or bandage.
4. Change the dressing daily or if it becomes wet.

See a doctor if there is swelling, redness, or pus — these can be early signs of infection.

4. Heat Exhaustion and Dehydration

Long hours under the sun can lead to dizziness, nausea, and fatigue. These are early signs of heat exhaustion.

First aid:

• Move to a shaded or air-conditioned area.
• Sip cool water slowly.
• Cool the body with a damp towel or cold pack on the neck, armpits, and forehead.
• Rest until fully recovered.

If the person becomes confused, vomits, or stops sweating, call 000 — it could be heatstroke, which is a medical emergency.

5. Insect Bites and Sandfly Stings

Beach insects such as sandflies and mosquitoes can leave itchy, red bites that last for days.

What to do:

• Wash the area with soap and water.
• Apply a cold pack to reduce swelling.
• Use an antihistamine cream or tablet for itching.
• Avoid scratching to prevent infection.

For anyone with known allergies to insect stings, always carry an EpiPen and inform friends or family where it is stored.

6. Foot Injuries and Blisters

Hot sand, thongs, and long walks can quickly lead to blisters or burns.

First aid for blisters:

• Do not pop the blister unless it’s large and painful.
• Cover with a non-stick dressing or hydrocolloid blister pad.
• Keep feet clean and dry.
• If it bursts naturally, clean gently with saline and re-cover.

Hot sand burns:

• Move to shade immediately.
• Cool the area under running water for 20 minutes.
• Cover lightly with a clean dressing and avoid further heat exposure.

7. Eye Irritation from Sand or Salt

Getting sand in your eye can be painful, but rubbing makes it worse.

What to do:

1. Rinse the eye with clean water or saline.
2. Blink several times to help flush it out.
3. Do not rub or use cotton swabs near the eye.
4. Seek medical help if discomfort continues or vision is blurry.

Your Beach First Aid Kit Essentials

Before heading to the coast, pack a small waterproof kit that includes:

• Adhesive bandages and non-stick dressings
• Antiseptic wipes or spray
• Tweezers
• Saline solution or eye wash
• Burn gel or hydrogel dressing
• Instant cold pack
• Antihistamine tablets and cream
• Waterproof plasters
• SPF 50+ sunscreen and lip balm
• Aloe vera or after-sun lotion
• Insect repellent
• Scissors and disposable gloves
• Vinegar (for tropical jellyfish if travelling north of Queensland)

Check that everything is in date and stored in a sealed container or dry bag.

Beach Safety Tips for Families

• Always swim between the red and yellow flags at patrolled beaches.
• Keep children within arm’s reach in the water.
• Never turn your back on the ocean — waves can change quickly.
• Avoid swimming alone or after drinking alcohol.
• Drink water regularly and take shade breaks every hour.
• Reapply sunscreen and check on kids often; they can burn faster than adults.
  
  

If You’re Heading to the Bay from the North-West

Locals from Keilor, Tullamarine, Sunbury, and Melton often head to Altona Beach, Williamstown, or St Kilda for quick day trips. These spots are family-friendly but can get crowded on hot days, making slips, stings, and dehydration more common.

Bring plenty of water, a wide-brimmed hat, and your first aid kit. It’s a simple way to keep small issues small and enjoy your day without a visit to the local medical centre.

Final Word

The beach is one of the best parts of an Australian summer, but it pays to be prepared.
A little knowledge and a stocked first aid kit can turn potential disasters into minor hiccups.

Whether it’s a sting, scrape, or sunburn, quick action helps everyone get back to what matters most — sunshine, laughter, and a safe day by the sea.

References and Resources

• Royal Life Saving Australia – Beach Safety
• Surf Life Saving Australia – Beachsafe
• Healthdirect – Bluebottle Stings
• Better Health Channel – Sunburn and Heat Illness