Local lifeguards urge beach safety for busy 4th of July weekend

JACKSONVILLE BEACH, Fla. — Jacksonville Beach Ocean Rescue is warning the public about beach dangers ahead of the busy holiday weekend.

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“We want to remind everybody to think about. It's a different environment that you’re used to,” Captain Rob Emahiser said. “It’s going to be hotter, it’s going to be more crowded, so it’s easier to lose each other, lose your kids.”

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Lifeguards are expecting large crowds at the beaches for the holiday. They said it’s one of the busiest days of the year. Ocean Rescue said it will bring in additional staff, more than 20 posts will have a lifeguard. They have also rented more rescue vehicles to patrol the beach, and will have a nightside crew for emergencies.

“Keep right by your kids,” Emahiser said. “This weekend will be more important than ever because it’s so crowded, it’ll take less time to lose your kid. So if you’re bringing the kids, go down to the water with them, if they’re making a sandcastle, be right there with them.”

Ocean Rescue offers green wrist bands for parents to write down their phone number in case their child wanders off. They urge parents to stay next to their children and alert a lifeguard if their child wonders off.

Cox Media Group