Heading out to the beach can be tricky for people who use a hearing aid. The elements found there aren't particularly kind to these pieces of technology, so you need to make sure you take the following five steps to prevent yours from becoming damaged.

1. Don't Take It Near the Water

It's a no-brainer that you shouldn't leap into the ocean with your hearing aid still in, but people don't always plan to get as wet as they eventually do. Sure, you might just be planning on paddling, but you never know if you'll be knocked over by a wave or simply slip on a rock. If you're out on the water, even if you're in a small boat, it's best to play it safe by removing your hearing aid.

2. Use a Watertight Container

Now you know not to take your hearing aid too near the water, you need to know what to do with it when you're having a dip. Ideally, you need to make sure it is completely protected from random splashes, as well as the general moisture in the air. To make sure that happens, bring a watertight container with you, then stow your hearing aid inside whenever it isn't in use.

3. Keep It Clean

High temperatures often bring high humidity levels, especially if you're by the water. This increases the amount that you sweat, and that sweat can work its way into your hearing aid. The problem is exacerbated by the fact that bacteria and fungi can grow more easily when the air is more humid. The take-home is that you need to clean your hearing aid regularly. Antimicrobial wipes are perfect for the job since they disinfect as well as clean.

4. Keep It Dry

When you've finished cleaning off your hearing aid, make sure you dry it off. Moisture from sweat and water can damage your hearing aid, so use a dry cloth to prevent any from building up. If your hearing aid does get wet from salty water, rinse it with tap water before you dry it off to prevent any salt being left over.

5. Secure Your Hearing Aid

Being at the beach often means being active, whether you're playing volleyball or simply messing around with the kids. With so much water and sand around, you want to keep your hearing aid from coming loose, so try using a lanyard or sports clip to keep it anchored to you at all times, even when you're only wearing your swimming things.