Set the timer to 22 seconds

Online timer for 22 seconds

Start the countdown, step under the beach shower and spend the next twenty-two seconds rinsing sand from your feet instead of watching the screen. That is enough time for a quick pass over your toes, soles and ankles after leaving the water. Keeping your attention on the rinse also helps stop wet sand following you onto the path, into the car or through the house.

While you rinse, the finish sound may slip into connected headphones without you noticing, especially if they are tucked in a bag or worn by someone nearby. Surf, wind and running water can mask sound from the phone itself. A visible screen or vibration is more dependable when the audio connection is uncertain, and the short interval means there is little time to notice a missed alert.

At a shared Australian beach shower, finish with one foot placed clear of the sandy runoff, then switch feet rather than occupying the tap for another full rinse. Keep the alert volume modest because families, swimmers and people changing nearby will hear a sharp signal more clearly than you do beneath the water. If the sand is already gone, stopping early leaves the shower free; if grains remain, brush them away before using more water.