Lifeguards warn spring breakers: Expect rip currents (update)

The South Walton Fire District (SWFD) urges residents, visitors, and in particular Spring break beachgoers to use caution as east winds (15 to 20 knots with higher gusts) will result in 4 to 6 ft. seas, presenting a high risk of strong rip currents along Florida’s Panhandle beaches this weekend through Tuesday. In addition to the rip current risk, rough surf and higher waves could result in minor beach erosion during high tide.  By heeding the advice of local lifeguards and officials, residents and visitors to the Beaches of South Walton can reduce their chances of injury or loss of life.         
 
“We’re urging all beachgoers to follow the advice and direction of SWFD lifeguards and beach safety warning flags”, said Gary Wise, SWFD Beach Safety Director.  “We want everyone to enjoy our beaches this spring and return home safely.”
 
SWFD officials and lifeguards want all residents and visitors to understand their swimming ability, be aware of rip currents, and learn how to get out of them safely and understand and adhere to the beach safety warning flags.  A rip current is a channel of water that rapidly flows away from the shoreline. 
 
Some important safety tips to keep in mind if you witness a person stranded in the water:
 
•Get help from a lifeguard.  
•If a lifeguard is not available, have someone call 9-1-1.
•Throw the rip current victim something that floats.
•Yell instructions on how to escape.  The best method is to swim out of the current in a direction following the shoreline. When out of the current, swim at an angle--away from the current--towards shore.
•Remember, many would be rescuers drown while trying to save someone else from a rip current.      

 Meanwhile, Okaloosa County Lifeguards are patrolling county beaches now through October 31, from 10:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. 

 “The Okaloosa County Beach Safety Program will begin its sixth season this year, and received their United States Lifesaving Association (USLA) certification in 2007,” stated Okaloosa County Public Safety Director Dino Villani.  USLA certification is a two-year process of developing an organization to reach the accreditation level through physical fitness training, equipment requirements and a technical evaluation of the level of medical care. 

Lifeguards and Beach Safety Teams experience training throughout the year to maintain their qualifications and prepare them for the summer season.  Please be observant of the warning flags placed along public beaches.  Green flags indicate favorable swimming conditions, yellow flags- medium hazard, red flags- high hazard, and purple flags indicate marine pets are present.  If a double red flag is flying, the water is closed for swimming.  Choose to make wise choices and to be safe this summer.  For more information, contact Beach Safety, 850-651-7150.