| 1. |
Information, discount
coupons and special offers, a calendar of events, maps, and hundreds of brochures
describing area attractions, shops, restaurants, and other businesses are available
at the three offices
of the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce. Call (843) 626-7444 for directions
to the one nearest you. |
| 2. |
Don't let a sunburn spoil
a great getaway. Use sunscreen with a high SPF. Other pointers: apply sunscreen
30 minutes before exposure to the sun; reapply after swimming, physical activity,
or prolonged time in the sun; wear a hat and swimsuit cover-up (or t-shirt) for
added protection; avoid the midday sun; don't fall asleep while sunbathing. Finally,
beware of cloudy days - burning rays penetrate clouds. |
| 3. |
Lifeguards are on duty
along many Grand Strand beaches during the summer months. Inexperienced swimmers
or families with children should make sure the beach area they visit is staffed
by a lifeguard. Other pointers: don't swim alone; if you encounter a riptide (a
strong current that can pull you away from shore), yell for help, and begin swimming
parallel to the beach until you are free from the current's pull. |
| 4. |
Don't leave valuable items
in your car, hotel room, or other visible/accessible places (such as on a beach
towel while swimming). |
| 5. |
Lost cash cannot be replaced,
but traveler's checks can. Traveler's checks in U.S. currency are widely accepted
in the Myrtle Beach area. These checks must be signed twice: first, at the bank
in which they are purchased, and second, when they are used to make a purchase
- in front of the merchant. |
| 6. |
Foreign currency or foreign
traveler's checks can be exchanged at most commercial banks and at the Myrtle
Beach International Airport (with proper ID). |
| 7. |
Automatic Teller
Machines (ATMs) are readily accessible throughout the area. Emergency cash may
be obtained from many commercial banks with a major credit card, if the
cardholder has cash advance privileges. Western Union fund transfers also are
available, but be sure to verify whether the office can intercede at a local
bank if Western Union remits the funds by check rather than cash. |
| 8. |
Keep personal
identification, medical information, and health insurance cards with you at all
times in case of emergency. |
| 9. |
Local highways often
are congested during rush hour traffic or inclement weather. Familiarize
yourself with the area by using road maps and asking for directions. Allow
extra time to reach your destination. Tune in to a local radio station for
traffic updates. Consider alternate routes when traffic is heavy. Maintain a
safe distance from the vehicle in front of you, and be prepared for sudden
stops. |
| 10. |
Familiarize yourself
with state and local laws and obey them. |
| 11. |
Take advantage of lower
golf rates during the summer vacation season. |
Tips for Safe Swimming
Through
the Swim Safe program, local communities offer these safety tips for ocean
swimmers:
- Swim in areas with a lifeguard
- Swim with a buddy
- Swim sober
- Don't fight the current (signal for help!)
- Don't float where you can't swim
- Watch small children closely
- Don't dive into the surf (protect your neck!)
- Leash your boogie board or surfboard
- Ask a lifeguard about ocean water conditions
- Look for, read, and obey all beach safety flags
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