24-05-2025
Crews tackle trash and water risks ahead of beach crowds in Norfolk
NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY) — As thousands of visitors head to Norfolk's beaches this holiday weekend, city crews are gearing up to keep the shorelines both clean and safe.
Previously: Beach & water safety: 'We want everybody to be prepared'
From Willoughby Spit to East Beach, Norfolk's Waste Management Strike Team will be out before dawn each day, servicing more than 100 trash cans across the city's 7.4 miles of beachfront.
With larger summer crowds expected, officials say maintaining the cleanliness of the sand is more than just cosmetic — it's about preserving the environment and protecting marine life.
'We have two crews that'll be working nonstop on the beach,' said Tariq DeBerry, a refuse inspector with the city's Waste Management Division. 'Be a beach hero. You know, make a splash, pick up trash.'
The city is using Kubotas and compact automated trucks to safely remove litter without disturbing sand dunes or beachgoers.
While the sanitation team handles what's on land, another crew is watching the water.
For the first time since 2019, Norfolk has restored lifeguard coverage at two of its three public beaches: Ocean View Beach Park and Community Beach Park.
'We had a shallow water rescue yesterday,' said Dan Jones, head of Norfolk's Aquatics, Beaches and Open Water Division. 'We had a medical emergency involving an unconscious man. This is just during our training time.'
Jones said swimmers should take caution, especially near sandbars and underwater troughs, where water depth can change suddenly.
'Never swim alone,' he said. 'And if you're a weak swimmer, don't go past your waist. If you get caught in a rip current, swim parallel to the shore — east or west — not straight back in.'
The city has also installed a beach flag warning system at public access points. Green flags mean normal conditions; yellow flags indicate rough surf or moderate hazards; and red flags warn of electrical storms or dangerous marine life.
Norfolk is also providing free public lifejackets for children and adults, available at guarded beaches throughout the summer.
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