When you’re a parent, you know it’s pretty impossible to fully switch off. Even when you head out on vacation with your loved ones in tow, the stress and the unknown of visiting an unfamiliar location can quickly leave you feeling on edge and not particularly relaxed!
Tips for Your Fort Lauderdale Getaway
We don’t get many vacation days to enjoy each year which is why it’s important to make the most of them when you can. Planning a family vacation to Fort Lauderdale is certainly a step in the right direction. Great beaches, great places to eat, wonderful weather, and lots of attractions to keep everyone happy are the perfect ingredients for a wonderful family getaway.
But, keeping your kids safe when you’re exploring a new location is key to enjoying a stress-free and enjoyable vacation that you’ll all remember (for the right reasons). From safety in crowded areas to how to ensure your hotel stay in Fort Lauderdale is safe and secure, in this post, we’ll take a closer look at some family-friendly safety tips for your Fort Lauderdale getaway.
Beach Safety
Fort Lauderdale is known for its family-friendly beaches. Families can easily spend entire days at locations like Fort Lauderdale Beach and Hollywood Beach! Soft sands, calm waters, and plenty of nearby amenities mean families can enjoy a beach day safe in the knowledge that everyone will have a great time. Here are our top tips for keeping your kids safe on the beaches.
Always Supervise: The ocean is unpredictable and even calm waters can be deceiving. Always supervise your children especially if they’re playing in the water. Rip tides, strong currents, and hidden, uneven depths could put your little ones at risk.
Always visit Lifeguarded Beaches: You’ll find lifeguards at beaches such as Fort Lauderdale Beach and Hollywood Beach. This means there’s someone on hand if an emergency arises.
Apply Waterproof Sunscreen: Always remember to apply waterproof sunscreen throughout the day, especially around midday and the afternoon when the Florida sun is at its hottest.
Use Proper Swim Gear: Water shoes, life jackets, flotation devices, and sun hats are always recommended if you’re visiting beaches with younger children.
Keep Hydrated: There are plenty of amenities around but always bring plenty of your own water to keep everyone hydrated and safe in the heat.
Set a Boundary: When you arrive mark out areas where your children can play and explore.
Talk to Your Children: Speak with your children before you visit about the importance of beach safety and what to do in an emergency.
Visiting Crowded Areas
Fort Lauderdale is popular, and it’s easy to see why! Great weather, beaches, and plenty of shopping opportunities and attractions mean that millions of tourists flock here every year. That’s why it’s important to chat with your children before you visit areas like Las Olas Boulevard and Riverwalk about how to stay safe in overwhelmingly large crowds.
Designate a Meeting Spot: In the event that you become separated from your children, speak to them before you travel, and agree to meet at a specific location. Such as a large landmark or even a particular restaurant or food stand. Just make sure it’s one they can easily spot and locate in the crowds.
Use ID Bracelets or GPS Trackers: If your child has a backpack or a keychain you could consider adding a GPS device to them to help you find their location if they get lost. Other suggestions include GPS bracelets that will help you track them – this will certainly offer you peace of mind!
Dress Your Children in Bright Clothing: Dressing your child in bright clothing will make them easier to spot in a crowd.
Teach Them to Stay Close: Chat with your child about the importance of staying close to you in busy areas.
Practice the Look Loudly Method: In the terrifying event that your child goes missing, practice the Look Loudly method. This means yelling loudly the name of your child and what they’re wearing. For example, “I’m looking for my son “Jack” he’s wearing a green t-shirt, and red shorts, and has blonde hair!” This method gives information to others nearby who may spot your child based on the description you’re giving.
Making Your Hotel Visit Safe
For your kids, there’s nothing more exciting than staying in a hotel! But safety in your accommodation in Fort Lauderdale is just as important as staying safe outdoors. Fort Lauderdale offers a wide range of hotels and accommodation options that suit families of all sizes, whether you’re looking for luxury at a beachfront resort or you’re considering a private rental through Airbnb, here are our top tips for staying safe in your accommodation.
Choose Family-Friendly Accommodation: Always choose accommodation that specifically caters to families. This usually means that windows and doors can be locked, rooms are made more secure and there are plenty of child amenities. When you arrive check that all locks work correctly and that the room is secure.
Lock Your Balcony: If you have a balcony, check that access to it is restricted and that children cannot fall between railings or bars.
Check the Room for Danger: Check the room for sharp objects, and make sure mirrors and heavy furniture are secured to walls and cannot fall over.
Check the Pool: If your accommodation has a pool, make sure that your children are always supervised and that the area is clean and free of debris.
Bonus Safety Tips:
- Make a list of emergency contacts. This includes information about the nearest Fort Lauderdale hospitals and pharmacies, and your hotel’s information.
- Make sure your phone is always fully charged and that you have a physical copy of any emergency details.
- Pack a basic first aid kit.
Final Thoughts
There are lots of destinations for a family vacation you might consider, but a vacation to Fort Lauderdale is one that you and your family will remember for all the right reasons. To ensure your tip is stress-free and enjoyable, consider the safety tips above. Enjoy your vacation!
