Warm beach weather is coming soon. But, don’t forget the safety of your feet! Beer bottles, aluminum cans, and all sorts of other clutter routinely get left on the beach.

That can spell disaster for your feet. And it could even be worse if you already have diabetes or an immune system compromised by other health conditions.

How do you keep your feet safe at the beach so you don’t find yourself making an unexpected trip to the emergency room, or to your podiatrist? Follow the simple tips below:

This is What You Should Wear on Your Feet

You may want to wear sandals to the beach. Who wouldn’t? But, there’s a slight problem with them. First, broken glass or other trash laying around the beach can easily get between your sandal and your foot.

Second, hot sand can get under your feet. This doesn’t sound like a big deal at first. But when the temperature gets really hot, the sand can get warm enough to cause first or second degree burns.

To get the best protection, use an old or cheap pair of closed shoes (like sneakers). Yes, they may get a little damp. But you can simply remove the insole and let it dry overnight.

If you’re worried about fungus and bacteria, you can get antifungal/antibacterial spray to eliminate that threat (we carry Clarus shoe spray for this).

As an alternative, you might also wear waterproof “water sock” shoes.

Yes, Your Feet Need Sunscreen Too

Nothing’s more painful than an intense sunburn on your neck and shoulders. It makes it difficult for you to sleep at night. And it’s hard to get comfortable just about anywhere until your sunburn heals.

But don’t forget your feet! They can get sunburned too. In addition, this likely reduces your risk to get carcinoma and melanoma, according to recent research.

Make Sure Your Tetanus Shot is Up To Date

Have you had your Tetanus booster shot within the past 10 years? Simply check with your primary care physician(s) if you’re not sure.

If you do get a puncture wound when you’re at the beach, clean it immediately with soap, water, and an antiseptic. Cover the wound with a bandage, and stay out of both fresh and ocean water.

You’re wise to seek medical attention immediately after stepping on any kind of foreign material. You should be doubly concerned about doing this if you’re diabetic or have a compromised immune system. You can get a staph or strep infection from such an incident, and that can lead to loss of your limb, or even become life-threatening.

Now You Can Enjoy the Beach This Summer

Going to the beach has a few risks. Armed with this new knowledge, your afternoon of fun doesn’t have to turn into a medical nightmare.

Keep it in mind when you go to the beach. You never know when it might save the day for you or your loved one.