“In the Landes, the sea can be rough. You may be tempted to give the waves a miss and take a dip in one of the large natural “swimming pools” the tide cuts in the sand, which we call baïnes. This is not a good idea! With the rising tide, a strong current can carry you out to sea from there. It is much preferable to swim during the ebb tide especially with small children, for more safety. ”
“Always swim between the two blue flags on either side of the area monitored by lifeguards. ”
“If the current carries you offshore, there is no point fighting, you have to let yourself be carried by the current towards the waves and then return with the waves.”
“Hydrate yourself as much as possible, protect yourself from the sun, with a cap, lycra, hat, parasol (especially for children), as sunstroke is common when people don’t prepare. ”
“Watch out for stonefish, which love the warm water in the baïnes and are half buried in the sand. They have a poisonous sting which can cause severe pain. If you do get stang off a fish, don’t put cold water on it – it’s more soothing to walk in the hot sand. Ask for help at the first aid station.”
