JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Two children were pulled from strong waters at Huguenot Memorial Park on Wednesday.
Lifeguards rescued the children after they were caught in a rip current. The advisory flags for swimming were red to warn beachgoers about the high surf and strong currents.
One of the children was taken to the hospital in stable condition, according to Jacksonville Fire and Rescue.
Lifeguards with Jacksonville Beach Ocean Rescue also warned beachgoers to pay attention to swimming conditions.
Rip currents are one of the most dangerous and challenging conditions in the water.
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“We definitely do see quite a few rip current rescues throughout the beach area,” Lt. Maxwell Ervanian said.
Ervanian talked about the biggest issue lifeguards witness.
"Our most common water rescue issue is going to be due to people overestimating their ability of swimming in the ocean,” Ervanian said.
That’s why he stressed the importance of people understanding how dangerous the ocean can be.
According to JBOR’s annual report, in 2023, there were nearly 6,000 calls for service with 915 being water-related incidents, which was an increase from 2022.
With Memorial Day Weekend days away, Ervanian has a message for swimmers:
“If you’re not the most experienced swimmer, stay out of the water or stay in ankle-deep water or less,” Ervanian said.
Here’s what the hazard flags mean:
- Red flags: High hazard, high surf and/or strong currents
- Yellow flags: Medium hazard, moderate surf and/or currents
- Green flags: Low hazard, calm conditions, exercise caution
- Purple flags: Stinging marine life, man o’ war, jellyfish, stingrays
“Anytime you see the red flags, we always urge bathers and beachgoers that knee deep is too deep,” Ervanian said.
Ervanian also suggested beachgoers never swim alone and swim near a lifeguard.