JACKSONVILLE BEACH, Fla. — Many people always find a good reason to enjoy Labor Day at the beach.
“Just wanted to enjoy the sunshine and get some time with the sand with the kids and enjoy it,” said Langdon Roscoe, who came out to Jacksonville Beach on Labor Day.
“Wanted to come out and try and catch some fish,” said Nolan Moser, who also took time to come to the beach.
As beachgoers continue to enjoy the beach this extended weekend, local safety officials are reminding the public that preparation and awareness are the keys to a safe day in the surf. Lieutenant Maxwell Irvanian of Jackson Beach Ocean Rescue recently outlined essential safety protocols.
According to Lt. Irvanian, the single most important action a beachgoer can take is to position themselves near a designated lifeguard.
“Anytime someone comes out to the beach, whether it’s on a holiday or on a regular day, we always want to stress to all bathers and beachgoers to swim near the nearest lifeguard,” Irvanian said.
For those unfamiliar with the area or unsure of where personnel are stationed, Irvanian noted that visitors can call the local lifeguard station directly at (904) 270-1685 to ask where guards are posted for the day.
In areas or times when lifeguards are not on duty, the “buddy system” becomes non-negotiable. “We always tell people never swim alone, always swim with a buddy,” he emphasized.
Safety begins before even packing a beach bag. Ocean Rescue recommends checking both local weather forecasts and ocean conditions prior to heading to the beach.
However, conditions can change rapidly. Irvanian warned beachgoers to remain vigilant for incoming storms, particularly when phone alerts go off, clouds roll in, or you hear thunder.
The danger of lightning at the beach cannot be understated. Because beaches are wide-open spaces adjacent to water, they present a high-risk environment during electrical storms.
Florida is leading the nation in lightning deaths. Places like Atlantic Beach and Neptune Beach have sirens that warn people if lightning is coming.
“Lightning, no matter where you are, is dangerous,” Irvanian warned. “Being at the beach in a very open setting with water very nearby, lightning has a high potential of striking on the beach proper.”
The official rule of thumb for all swimmers and sunbathers is simple: the moment you hear thunder, leave and seek shelter.
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