SoWal Lifeguards Take to the Beach

South Walton Fire District Lifeguards Take to the Beach

South Walton Fire District (SWFD) lifeguards will report to their towers at eight beach access points this Saturday March 13, 2010. The SWFD Beach Safety Program began the season two weeks ago as new and returning lifeguards reported for the start of the annual training academy.

The annual training academy lasts 80 hours and consists of medical, surf rescue techniques, beach and water surveillance techniques, strength and stamina conditioning, Fire District policies/ procedures, and communications. ?Training at this time of year in the Gulf is particularly challenging due to the cold water and weather temperatures?, said Gary Wise, Beach Safety Director.

As the SWFD Lifeguards prepare to start the 5th season of the Beach Safety and Education Program, a partnership between the SWFD and the South Walton Tourist Development Council (TDC), we will be unveiling a new educational tool. A weather monitoring and surf camera system is in place this year, providing real time weather data and surf condition video.

Currently, one system is online at Ed Walline Park with two additional stations anticipated to come online this season in the Miramar Beach and Inlet Beach areas. ?These new educational tools are available to the public and used in conjunction with the beach safety warning flag system, both of which can be accessed at SWFD - HOME, aiding the public in making prudent, informed decisions on whether to enter the water before they even arrive at the beach?, said Wise.

?The SWFD Beach Safety and Education Program is responsible for 26 miles of beach protected by lifeguards from eight towers and four roving patrols. We are continually looking for new and creative ways to reach and educate a larger audience on the conditions and potential dangers associated with swimming in the Gulf of Mexico.

This is only made possible by the support of the TDC and the Walton County Board of Commissioners who recognize the importance of maintaining the safety of our beach patrons, locals and visitors alike? said Sean Hughes, Deputy Chief.