Beach Safety

By County Executive Ed Romaine

Cover Photo Credit – Matt Meduri

Suffolk County is home to over 1,000 miles of coastline, checkered with parks, beaches and private homes. Naturally, summer should be a season of bliss and enjoyment for residents of all ages. Unfortunately, many accidents locally and nationally have marred this summer. Over 4,000 people die every year from drowning, according to numbers from the CDC. That translates to over 12 deaths per day, and this terrible trend shows no signs of reversing. Be mindful and remember to enjoy the season but enjoy it safely and responsibly.

Here are some helpful reminders when visiting our beautiful beaches.
• Swim between the buoys.
• Only swim when a lifeguard is on duty.
• Swim sober.
• Do not swim alone.
• Swim parallel to shore to get out of a
rip current.
• Pay attention to flags and warnings
from lifeguards.
• Water wings and tubes are no substitute for adult supervision.
• Check the weather forecast before you swim.

Keeping in mind these tips, remember to have fun. Suffolk County operates three world-class ocean beaches: Cupsogue Beach County Park, Smith Point County Park, and Shinnecock East County Park. Visit our parks department’s website to learn about our Green Key Card to save on parking.

We are also home to one of the highest concentrations of swimming pools in the country. Many of the safety tips for beach going apply to pools as well. Additional safety tips for pools include:
• No running by the pool.
• Only dive in deep water.
• Never leave the pool gate open.

For additional safety, consider taking a CPR course either by contacting Suffolk EMS at (631) 852-5080 or by contacting your local firehouse or EMS agency.

Let’s finish out this season strong by enjoying it safely.