- October 9, 2024
-
-
Loading
Loading
Independence Day traditionally makes for a busy beach weekend, and Volusia County expects this year to be no different. With rip currents an ongoing threat, the county states that the safest way to enjoy the water is always in front of a staffed lifeguard tower.
Vehicle ramps will open no earlier than 8 a.m., and vehicles must exit the beach before 7 p.m. Delays and congestion can be expected at popular ramps. Parking is also available in the county’s off-beach parking lots. Beachgoers are encouraged to have alternate beach access plans.
For real-time updates on the status of staffed lifeguard tower locations, vehicle access ramps, beach conditions and other helpful information, download the free Volusia Beaches app from the Google Play or Apple App store.
Unpredictable afternoon thunderstorms, which often include lightning, are always a threat during summer. Beachgoers are reminded that rumbles of thunder mean it’s time to seek shelter indoors.
Visitors are reminded to leave the fireworks to the professionals or run the risk of serious repercussions. Use and/or possession of fireworks is prohibited on Volusia County beaches, and individuals in possession of fireworks on the beach will have fireworks confiscated and may be arrested.
Bill 140 regarding the use of fireworks on designated holidays does not apply to Volusia County beaches. Fireworks cannot be used on the beach, in beachfront parks or at access points (including ramps and walkovers). Fireworks not only pose a great safety hazard, but they also deter nesting sea turtles from using the beach and create an enormous amount of trash that is extremely difficult to remove and is often ingested by sea life.
Beachgoers are asked to flatten sandcastles, fill in holes, and take chairs and equipment with them at the end of their visit, as these are obstacles for nesting sea turtles that make nests on the beach at night. Always stay clear of marked sea turtle nests and do not leave trash on the beach as it attracts predators. Bonfires on the beach are strictly prohibited during sea turtle nesting season.
An increase in beach visitors often means an increase in litter. An organized beach cleanup is planned from 8 to 10 a.m. Wednesday, July 5, at Winterhaven Park, 4589 S. Atlantic Ave., Ponce Inlet. Bring a bucket or trash bag, grabbers and gloves if you have them. Whether with a group or as an individual, volunteers are encouraged to walk their favorite stretch of beach Wednesday morning and assist with collection and disposal of debris left from the weekend’s festivities.
You can also do your part and help Keep Volusia Beautiful by properly disposing of trash this weekend, whether it’s in one of the 1,500 trash receptacles placed along the beach, or by packing it up and disposing of it at home. Trash bags are available upon request at all tollbooths. Roving carts will canvass the beach to assist with garbage collection.
While fun in the sun is encouraged on Volusia County beaches, alcohol, glass containers and pets are prohibited. Vehicles must remain in designated driving areas and observe the speed limit.
For more information, follow Volusia County Beaches on Facebook and Twitter, visit www.volusia.org/beach.
