Coronavirus pandemic: Jacksonville area beach communities respond to COVID-19

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The Jacksonville area beach communities are asking people to practice social distancing on the beach -- don’t gather in large crowds and stay at least 6 feet apart -- while on the beach. They are also asking for people to stay near a lifeguard if they are planning to swim.

Jacksonville Beach, Atlantic Beach and Neptune Beach sent out a news release explaining the beaches community response to the coronavirus and the Governor’s and Mayor’s requirements for social distancing.

The release says that they are “determined to try and keep the beaches open for as long as practical, but can only do so with support from the public.”

The City of Jacksonville Beach Ocean Rescue sent a separate release declaring a State Of Emergency for the City of Jacksonville Beach. The City of Jacksonville Beach said the declaration is because of the influx in the number of people going to the beach recently.

Here is the full release from Jacksonville Beach, Atlantic Beach and Neptune Beach:

"The cities of Atlantic Beach, Jacksonville Beach, and Neptune Beach are in support of Governor DeSantis’ and Mayor Curry’s emergency declarations regarding COVID-19, and requirements for social distancing and minimal group sizes. To that end, all three communities are determined to try and keep the beaches open for as long as practical, but can only do so with support from the public.

"The beach crowds that have been seen over the past week are equal to what we experience during summer months. However, resources at all three communities (to include lifeguard staffing) are currently limited based on the time of year and the ongoing COVID-19 health emergency.

"The beach communities request that the public adhere to the following guidelines:

• If you are planning to enter the water, stay within 500 feet of a lifeguard chair to support lifesaving response
• Continue to practice social distancing of groups less than 10, and distance separation of at least 6 feet If the public adheres to these guidelines, the beaches may be able to stay open for an extended period of time. The beach cities will continue to monitor the situation on a daily basis, and make adjustments accordingly.

“If the public adheres to these guidelines, the beaches may be able to stay open for an extended period of time. The beach cities will continue to monitor the situation on a daily basis, and make adjustments accordingly.”

Here is what the full release from the City of Jacksonville Beach:

"On March 13, 2020, Mayor Latham declared a State of Emergency for the City of Jacksonville Beach due to the COVID-19 crisis. With this declaration in effect, the City of Jacksonville Beach has seen a major increase in beach population.

"The City of Jacksonville Beach Ocean Rescue division advises all bather and beachgoers of the following:

• SWIM IN FRONT OF A LIFEGUARD – Due to the increase in beachgoers within the last couple of weeks, water related emergencies have dangerously increased in Jacksonville Beach. With the limited amount of lifeguards on-duty at this time of the year, we are advising people to not go into the water unless you are in front of a lifeguard.
• PRACTICE SOCIAL DISTANCING – The Florida Department of Health recommends to maintain a 6 feet distance between you and others, including when you are enjoying the beach. Every attempt should be made to avoid large gatherings on the beach.
• AVOID TOUCHING EYES, NOSE, MOUTH - Hands touch many surfaces and can pick up viruses. Once contaminated, hands can transfer the virus to your eyes, nose or mouth. Wash your hands before applying sunscreen.
• CLEAN YOUR HANDS OFTEN - Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Or use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Clean your hands especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing. The City of Jacksonville Beach continues to monitor and collaborate with partner agencies regarding COVID-19 and will evaluate future actions necessary to protect the health and well-being of residents and visitors.

"For information directly relating to COVID-19 in Duval County, visit www.jaxready.com/virus.

"For direct questions or guidance in reference to COVID-19, you can call the 24-hour Florida Department of Health Call Center at 866-779-6121 or COVID-19@flhealth.gov. "

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