VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla – Beach safety teams along the coast are gearing up for a busy four days starting with the Fourth of July on Thursday. Volusia Beach Safety expects big crowds on top of dangerous rip currents.
“It looks like we will be flying the red flag over the next few days going into this holiday weekend,” said Beach Safety Director Tammy Malphurs. “Make sure when you come to the beach, make sure you’re swimming in front of those staffed lifeguard towers. Do not go in the water if there’s not a tower.”
Red flags indicate strong rip currents are present.
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“If you get caught in a rip current, do not panic. It doesn’t pull you under, just pulls you out to deeper water. Don’t panic, yell for help. If you’re in front of that tower guard, they will see you before you even know you’re in trouble,” Malphurs said.
On top of rip currents, Malphurs said to also keep in mind alcohol is not allowed on the beach. Fireworks are not either, and pay attention to the high tides if you want to drive on.
“We’re looking at a morning high tide so be patient getting to the beach in the morning. Don’t rush to get here,” she said.
Volusia County has a Volusia Beaches app for your cell phone where you can see where lifeguards are set up, if ramps are open or closed due to tide or capacity, and it’s all updated in real time.
You can find the app here.
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