“ Beach & Water Safety”
Summer officially started on June 21st and our scenic beaches are a very popular destination for residents and visitors. The following beach and water safety tips are being proactively disseminated in an effort to increase safety of those that enjoy the beach and waterways in Flagler Beach.
Learn To Swim: Learning to swim is the best defense against drowning. Teach children to swim at an early age.
Swim Near a Lifeguard: The United States Lifeguard Association statistics over a ten (10) year period show that the chance of drowning at a beach without lifeguard protection is almost five (5) times as great as drowning at a beach with lifeguards.
Swim with a Friend: Many drownings involve those that swim by themselves. When you swim with a friend, if one (1) of you has a problem, the other may be able to help or signal for help.
Check with the Lifeguards: Lifeguards work continually to identify hazards. They can advise you on the safest place to swim, as well as places to avoid. Talk to them when you first arrive at the beach and ask them for their advice.
Use Sunscreen and Drink Water: Choose “broad spectrum” sunscreen rated from 15 to 50 SPF, or clothing that covers your skin. Reapply sunscreen regularly throughout the day and drink lots of water. Avoid alcohol, which contributes to dehydration.
Keep the Beach and Water Clean: Please utilize trash containers and remember to leave footprints in the sand, not your trash.
Obey Posted Signs and Flags: In Flagler Beach our Lifeguards utilize the following flags;
Green Flag: Low hazard
Yellow Flag: Medium hazard
Red Flag: Dangerous hazard
Purple Flag: Dangerous marine life, to include jellyfish
Learn Rip Current Safety: If you’re caught in a rip current, stay calm and don’t fight it by trying to swim directly to shore. Instead, swim parallel to shore until you feel the current relax; then swim to shore. Most rip currents are narrow and a short swim parallel to shore will bring you to safety. A video presentation on rip currents entitled “Break the Grip of the Rip!” can be viewed at the following website: http://ripcurrents.noaa.gov/index.shtml
If you have any questions regarding Beach and Water Safety in Flagler Beach, please contact Tom Gillin or Captain Doughney. The following websites can also provide additional information on beach & water safety, as well as rip currents;
www.ripcurrents.noaa.gov http://www.usla.org/?page=RIPCURRENTS
Special Note: High Tide for July 4th this year is 8:50 p.m. and the Fireworks will start at 9:00 p.m. Please plan ahead and be prepared for the incoming tide.