The Sarasota County Lifeguard Service
originated over thirty years ago as a volunteer organization.
Skilled professionals are now responsible
for public safety at six beaches spread over a 36-mile area of
the Gulf Coast. From north to south these beaches are: Lido,
Siesta, Nokomis, North Jetty, Venice and Manasota.
The Lifeguard Service training of the
Lifeguards maintains the “Preventative Lifeguarding” stance,
which is seeing the event happen before it happens.
- Sarasota County Beach Lifeguards have some of the safest
beaches in the State of Florida.
- The Lifeguard staff training
includes passing biannual qualification testing and becoming
First Responder Certified.
- Sarasota County’s Lifeguard
Operations received the honor of Florida Beach Lifeguard
Operations of the Year for 2004.
Beach Flags
Gulf water temperatures continue to rise as summer gets into
full swing. Remember to use sunscreen liberally and to reapply
it as needed throughout the day. To avoid dehydration be certain
to have plenty of water/sports drinks available. Beach flags
provide information on swimming conditions:
- green flag - good swimming conditions
- yellow - use caution
- red - dangerous swimming conditions
- double red flags - beach is closed to swimming
- purple -hazardous marine life
A yellow sign with black borders means sharks, rays, jelly
fish, and red tide are present. Warmer water can also mean
stingrays so remember to use the "stingray shuffle" when moving
through the water. Know your swimming skills and
abilities as the Gulf may look inviting but may have strong
currents. Also watch for signs of rip currents that may be
present.
