Latest news with #NationalBeachSafetyWeek
Yahoo
23-05-2025
- Yahoo
Folly Beach Braces for large crowds during Memorial Day weekend
FOLLY BEACH, S.C. (WCBD)–Crowds are already making their way to beaches across the Lowcountry to celebrate Memorial Day, and while officials want everyone to have a great time, they're also urging visitors to keep safety in mind. Folly Beach is bracing for thousands of visitors during Memorial Day weekend. City officials are ramping up resources to keep the beach safe and enjoyable. 'Any major holiday on Folly Beach, we staff almost our entire police department on rotating shifts. The fire department is fully staffed and ready to respond to any emergency. We're also proactive with intoxicated or reckless driving and speeding through neighborhoods. This is the beach—but it's also people's homes, said Andrew Gilreath, the director of public safety. Officials told News 2 that missing children was one of the biggest issues 2024. A straightforward task parents can take when they arrive can make all the difference if their child goes missing. 'We want everyone to come out, have a great time, and most importantly, make it home safely. Swim near a lifeguard and be aware of changing water conditions. Rip currents can form quickly, so stay informed, said Michael Bradley, the Folly Beach Pier Manager.' This year, Memorial Day weekend comes before National Beach Safety Week. Officials say that before you head out to any beach across the Lowcountry, you should check the local rules and comply with any directions from law enforcement. 'We're not here to write tickets—we want people to comply. Tickets are just accountability. Avoid blocking fire hydrants or driveways, and don't bring alcohol or glass onto the beach. These aren't just Folly Beach rules; they're standard across all beaches. We want everyone to have a safe, respectful experience.' To monitor traffic conditions, make sure to download our WCBD app, to stay up to date on traffic and road conditions. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- Climate
- Yahoo
13 tips to stay safe on Lowcountry beaches this summer
CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) – The Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission proclaimed that National Beach Safety Week is May 19 through May 26. The beach environment has natural hazards that require caution and awareness among those who venture into the waters and explore the shore. 'Many beachgoers tend to overestimate their swimming abilities and underestimate the dangers of rip currents. Beachgoers often can't identify a rip current, which can pull even experienced swimmers away from shore in seconds. That's why it's critical to swim near a lifeguard, pay attention to warning flags, and know how to spot and escape a rip current before getting in the water,' said Kari Lavoie, Emergency Services Manager for Charleston County Parks and Recreation Commission. According to the United States Lifesaving Association, rip currents can be identified by a narrow gap of darker, seemingly calmer water between areas of breaking waves and whitewater. Sometimes, it may make a line of foam or debris that moves seaward. Whether on the land or in the water, the United States Lifesaving Association suggests these tips to minimize accidents while visiting the beach: Swim near a lifeguard when possible Learn to swim Learn about rip current safety – learn more Never swim alone Designate a 'water watcher' to keep an eye on those in the water at all times Don't mix drinking alcohol and swimming in water Enter the water feet first Wear a life jacket if needed Observe signs and flags. Flags and symbols used by Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission include: Green: Generally good conditions for swimming. Red over Yellow: Designated lifeguarded swimming area between flags. Yellow: Use caution. Rough water or possibly dangerous sea life. Red: No swimming. Water is closed due to dangerous currents, severe storms, lightning, or possibly dangerous sea life. Purple: a higher-than-normal number of dangerous marine animals are present (e.g., jellyfish, sting rays, etc., not intended to notify of the presence of sharks). Beat the heat and block the sun Here are some additional tips from the Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission: Stay at least 200 feet away from piers when swimming Seek shelter when lightning is in the area Take a photo of your group when you arrive, so if anyone were to get separated, it could help aid in the search Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
