Sunny Isles Beach Ocean Rescue
Tips for Beach Safety
By Justin Broman and William “Chip” Pfeiffer, SIB Lead Lifeguards

Swimming is one of the most popular activities in South Florida. We have perfect water temperatures, hot sunny days, and a variety of water sports to participate in. But there are some hidden dangers which you should be aware of. Sunny Isles Beach Lifeguards try to go the extra steps to make our beach a safe place for you and your family to spend the day. We, the Sunny Isles Beach Lifeguards are continuously training to provide excellent service for our residents and visiting guests.

Our Training and Equipment include:

• Jet Ski training for all rescue scenarios
• Rescue boards, buoys, kayaks, and search and rescue training
• Ongoing C.P.R., First Aid, Medical and Trauma training
• Fully equipped ATV’s with oxygen, rescue supplies and First Aid equipment
• We have EMT’s and paramedics on staff
• We work in conjunction with Fire Rescue and the Police Department
• Daily workouts to keep guards fit and ready

To insure the safety of yourself and others, here are some helpful tips:

• Always swim in a guarded area
• Check warning flags daily and ask a lifeguard about the surf and beach conditions
• Do not overestimate your swimming abilities, stay close to shore
• Alcohol and swimming do not mix , swim sober
• Do not dive or jump into unknown waters
• Always drink a lot of fluids (water) to stay hydrated
• No glass containers on beach, broken glass in the sand is an unseen hazard
• Report all hazardous conditions to lifeguards
• Always protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen, SPF 15 or higher
• If you are in trouble call or wave for help
• If you are on a body board or surfboard use a leash to keep the board close to you
• Report all bird or animal injuries to a lifeguard

Rip currents

A rip current is a seaward moving current that circulates water back to the sea from waves on the shore line. A rip current is formed by pressured water. As the pressured water moves out to sea it takes the path of least resistance, usually between sandbars and next to jetties and piers.

Rip currents are the most threatening natural hazards along our coast, it’s an unseen danger. Most rescues are due to rip currents.

Obvious signs of a rip current.

• Seaweed or debris moving outward in a stream
• Difference in water color
• Waves not breaking or churning water
• Surface foam moving outward

Try to avoid swimming where rip currents are present.
If you are caught in a “rip current” most important is:

• Do not panic
• Try to signal for help
• Swim parallel to shore or until the current releases you.

NOTE:
Watch informational video about rip currents on SIB TV, Channel 77.

Beach Warning Flags

COLORS:

DOUBLE RED - Water closed to public.

RED - High Hazard
High Surf and/or Strong Currents

YELLOW - Medium Hazard
Moderate Surf and/or Currents

GREEN - Low Hazard
Calm Conditions, Exercise Caution

PURPLE - Dangerous Marine Life

TOP