JACKSONVILLE BEACH, Fla. – It’s officially opening weekend for Jacksonville beaches with the sandcastle contest being one of the first events. Police are also emphasizing safety for all beachgoers.
Denver Dudley said it felt great being at the beach.
“I wish it was a little bit more sunny not as windy and I haven’t been out here doing this in four years so it feels good to be back,” Dudley said.
Ziva Hill described how they molded a sea turtle at the beach.
“We pretty much mounded on the shelf, and then we put water, wet sand on the outside, and then dug a little under, kind of slide your hand like that and that’s pretty much it for both of it. Just mending sand, shaping low and then did some smoothing,” Hill said.
While people are enjoying their time at the beach, safety is a concern for the Jacksonville Beach Police Department.
The JBPD gave a 10-page document to city council that gives details on the multiple shootings that left one person dead and three others wounded and safety recommendations.
Police Chief Gene Paul Smith recommended increased traffic presence, increasing parking fees and fines during peak problem times, placing officers in plain clothes and unmarked cars, and more.
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Casey Jones gave his thoughts about safety in the area since the shootings.
“Jax Beach, excellent job, they stepped it up and just like that unforgiven St. Patrick’s Day shooting, there was zero response time and everything,” Jones said.
The Jacksonville Beach Ocean Rescue gave tips to keep in mind as well.
“Drink lots of fluids, stay cool and just be mindful of how long you’ve been at the beach. Bring an umbrella, wear sunglasses, wear protective clothing to prevent you from getting overheated, but also wearing sunscreen to prevent sunburns and any significant radiation issues,” Lieutenant Maxwell Ervanian, Training and Operations Officer said.
Lifeguards assess the ocean conditions every day and place red flags in areas they find dangerous to swim in.
“Red flag means dangerous conditions, we advise people not to go on the water, yellow flag means moderate ocean conditions. We strongly encourage people to have fun, and enjoy the water but be mindful of rip currents as well as any waves or other currents that may cause problems to any swimmer,” Ervanian said.
He said its rare to see a green flag in Jacksonville Beach but encouraged people to call 911 or flag down a lifeguard if they see an emergency.