Public health officials issued guidance on how to stay safe at the beach as more people head to the coast to cool off amid scorching temperatures. Swimmers have been reminded to keep their distance from others, despite restrictions easing on compulsory facemarks when outside. Dr Badria Al Harmi, director of the Dubai Health Authority Public Health Protection Department, called for vigilance as the coronavirus pandemic remained a threat. “When it comes to the beach, while we do not need to wear a mask in the water, it is important to maintain social distance of ideally two metres even when you are in the water,” she said. “Make sure you do not share personal items with others, carry your own beach mat, towel, sunscreen and water. “At the beach, find a spot where you are maintaining a social distance from others, keep your mask on, do not fidget with the mask and wear it properly. “Always keep a few spare masks in a sealed bag." She said hands should be sanitised before putting on a new mask. Security patrols deployed at the beaches of Dubai will issue warnings to anyone found flouting strict rules in place to control further infections. Drones are also used to check residents are complying with health and safety measures in place in beaches and parks. Police issued hundreds of fines in June to those ignoring rules, while 200 beachgoers were fined in just one day when beaches reopened at the end of May. Those without facemarks on the beach or not social distancing were hit with penalties up to Dh3,000. Authorities stressed the need to stay at home if any symptoms of coronavirus appear. “Anyone with symptoms should also stay home let alone go to the beach,” said Dr Al Harmi. “This means that even if you have mild symptoms such as a sore throat, a mild fever or mild upper-respiratory symptoms or any flu-like symptoms, you should not step out of the house. “By now, we should be on track with basic prevention measures such as wearing a mask, maintaining social distance at all times and carrying hand-sanitisers with us whenever we step out of our house.” Globally, coronavirus cases were above 8 million on Wednesday, with 3.9 million recoveries and more than 443,000 deaths.