Lifeguards expect busy weekend; fireworks prohibited

Posted On: June 30, 2022

Independence Day traditionally makes for a busy beach weekend, and this year is expected to be no different. With rip currents an ongoing threat, the safest way to enjoy the water is always in front of a staffed lifeguard tower. For real-time updates on the status of staffed lifeguard tower locations, vehicle access ramps, beach conditions and other helpful information, download the free Volusia Beaches app from the Google Play or Apple App store. 

According to the weather forecast, Independence Day weekend is expected to include a mix of sun, storms, moderate surf and afternoon high tides. Unpredictable afternoon thunderstorms, which often include lightning, are always a threat during summer. Beachgoers are reminded that rumbles of thunder mean it’s time to seek shelter indoors.

The 27th Avenue beach ramp in New Smyrna Beach will re open Saturday, July 2, to vehicles to help facilitate the holiday demand. While there are still some punch list items remaining, the ramp is expected to only have temporary weekday closures from here on out. The full complement of beach ramps - 23 in total - will open no earlier than 8 a.m., and all vehicles must exit the beach before 7 p.m. Parking is also available in the county’s many off-beach parking lots.

Fireworks

Visitors are reminded to leave the fireworks to the professionals, or run the risk of serious repercussions. Use and/or possession of fireworks is prohibited on Volusia County beaches, and individuals in possession of fireworks on the beach will have fireworks confiscated and may be arrested. Bill 140 regarding the use of fireworks on designated holidays does not apply to Volusia County beaches. Fireworks cannot be used on the beach, in beachfront parks or at access points (including ramps and walkovers). Fireworks not only pose a great safety hazard, but they also deter nesting sea turtles from using the beach and create an enormous amount of trash that is extremely difficult to remove and is often ingested by sea life.

Trash and turtles

With May 1 marking the start of turtle season, leaving the beach cleaner than you found it is more important than ever. Beachgoers should flatten sandcastles, fill in holes, and take chairs and equipment with them at the end of their visit, as these are obstacles for nesting sea turtles. Always stay clear of marked sea turtle nests. 

An increase in beach visitors often means an increase in litter. Organized beach cleanups are planned from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, July 5, at Tom Renick Park, 1565 Ocean Shore Blvd., Ormond Beach; Sun Splash Park, 611 S. Atlantic Ave., Daytona Beach; and Mary McLeod Bethune Beach Park, New Smyrna Beach. Bring a bucket or trash bag, grabbers and gloves if you have them. Whether with a group or as an individual, volunteers are encouraged to walk their favorite stretch of beach Tuesday morning and assist with collection and disposal of debris left from the weekend’s festivities. You can also do your part and help Keep Volusia Beautiful by properly disposing of trash this weekend, whether it’s in one of the 1,500 trash receptacles placed along the beach, or by packing it up and disposing of it at home. Trash bags are available upon request at all tollbooths. Roving carts will canvass the beach to assist with garbage collection.

While fun in the sun is encouraged on Volusia County beaches, alcohol, glass containers and pets are prohibited. Vehicles must remain in designated driving areas and observe the speed limit.

For more information, follow Volusia County Beaches on Facebook and Twitter, visit www.volusia.org/beach or download the free Volusia Beaches mobile app.