SARASOTA COUNTY - With the Memorial Day weekend approaching, Sarasota County Fire Department is reminding residents and visitors to keep safety in mind when visiting beaches or boating. SCFD’s Fire/Rescue boat will be on patrol Saturday, Sunday and Monday and SCFD Lifeguards are on duty daily, in their stands between 10 a.m. and 4:45 p.m. to help ensure boater and beach goer safety over the holiday weekend.
Safety reminders:
- Drink plenty of water, apply sunscreen and take breaks in the shade and air conditioning throughout the day to avoid heat-related illness.
- Always swim near a lifeguard. Sarasota County has six lifeguarded beaches. Always keep a watchful eye on your family and friends while enjoying our beautiful beaches and waterways.
- Break the Grip of the Rip: If you’re caught in a rip current, swim parallel to shore until you are outside the current. If you need help, call out or signal to the lifeguard.
- Boat safely and ensure everyone wears a U.S. Coast Guard approved, properly fitting life jacket.
- Only use grills outdoors and place the grill well away from siding or deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
