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Beach and Ocean Safety

Duval County has 15 miles of coastline with an abundance of public access to area beaches for residents and visitors to enjoy. While our beaches provide many beach-related activities to enjoy, such as surfing, swimming, fishing, and boating- it is important to remember to partake in these activities safely. 
Learn to Swim

Learning to swim is the best defense against drowning.

Never enter the water if you do not know how to swim or are not a strong ocean swimmer.

If you are not a strong ocean swimmer, take swim lessons. It is never too late to learn how to swim!

Beach Warning Flags
The beaches of Duval County use a flag system to inform sunbathers and beachgoers of the current ocean conditions. Flags are located along the beach at various boardwalk cross-overs. In the absence of flags, swimmers should use extreme caution when entering the water.
Double Red Flags
Water Closed to Public
 
Red Flag
High Hazard
High Surf and/or Strong Currents
Yellow Flag
Medium Hazard
Moderate Surf and/or Currents
Green Flag
Low Hazard
Calm Conditions, Exercise Caution
Purple Flag
Stinging Marine Life
Man O' War, Jellyfish, Stingrays
Rip Current Safety
What are rip currents? Rip currents are powerful channels of fast-moving water that usually flow away from the shore.  Rip currents can occur during both calm and rough conditions. Rip currents claim more lives in Florida than hurricanes, floods, tornadoes, and lightning combined.

Where do rip currents form? Typically, rip currents form at breaks in the sandbar, and near structures such as jetties and piers.  

What are some clues that a rip current may be present?
  • No waves breaking in the area
  • Unusual choppiness
  • Discoloration of water
  • A line of foam, seaweed, or debris moving away from the shore
If caught in a rip current: 
  • Don’t fight the current
  • Swim with the current, then to shore
  • If you can’t escape, float or tread water
  • If you need help, call or yell for assistance
Rip Currents, Know Your Options
Stay Safe In The Water
  • Never swim alone
  • Always swim in fron of a lifeguard
  • Heed warnings from lifeguards
  • Never underestimate the ocean's strength
  • Never swim if lightning or a storm is approaching
  • In case of emergency, call 911 if a lifeguard is not on duty. Do not attempt to rescue someone in distress
Jellyfish & Man-O-War

Jellyfish stings are generally very uncomfortable, but not life-threatening. In the event of being stung by a jellyfish, seek a Lifeguard's assistance. If a Lifeguard is not around and there is a life-threatening situation, call 911.

A man-of-war is turquoise in color with long tentacles. Sometimes looking like a balloon floating on the top of the water. If you see a man-o-war while in the ocean, Lifeguards advise to stay away. Their sting can be very dangerous. In severe cases, life-threatening signs and symptoms can be present such as paralysis or shock. Always seek Lifeguard's assistance if stung by a man-o-war. If a Lifeguard is not around and there is a life-threatening situation, call 911.


 
Use Sunscreen and Stay Hydrated

To protect yourself form the harmful sun rays, always choose sunscreen rated at least 15 SPF and/or clothing that covers your skin. Reapplying sunscreen regularly throughout the day is a must!

The sun can also dehydrate you quickly. Drink lots of water and avoid alcohol and carbonated beverages which contributed to dehydration.

Lifeguards treat bathers and beachgoers for heat exhaustion and heat stroke from time to time. If you feel ill, be sure to contact a Lifeguard immediately. If you don't see a Lifeguard, call 911.