Spring break is in full swing for college students, and now local schools are also celebrating spring break, but there are some safety tips to keep in mind before you head to the beach or on vacation.

Nancy Babin with On the Coast Magazine said, “Sun, surf, sand, all the making for a perfect spring break. College students, high school students, families, everyone enjoys a break from the normal routine of work and school, but a fun week off can be ruined in you don't remember the basic rules of personal safety.”

Never go anywhere or with anyone that you don't feel comfortable with. Always use the buddy system and be aware of your surroundings. Criminals often prey on people who are obviously on vacation, so use common sense with your cash.

"Don't expose large sums of cash in public, and keep enough money. Keep you bills in 20s, not 100s, and tuck away cab fare somewhere that is not in your purse."

And before you take a dip in the water, pay attention to local warning systems.

"With regard to swimming, educate yourself on our rip currents. If you should get caught in a current, don't try and swim against it. Swim parallel to shore until clear of the current and then swim in."

For more safety tips while on spring break, check out the latest edition of On the Coast Magazine. You can also go online and research an area before you vacation, and have an action plan in place in case you do have an emergency.