Whether boating or swimming, lifeguards and law enforcement in the Tampa Bay Area want everyone to prioritize safety.
“I’ve researched that this beach is one of the best beaches in America,” said Chevonne Jones.
Jones and her daughter, Asia-Lee, traveled thousands of miles from London for their first time in Florida, spending the day at Clearwater Beach. While water is a way of life for locals, this family knows to keep their guard up.
“I’m not a swimmer and my daughter’s still learning, so I’m very a bit nervous when she’s in there, so I try to not make her go too far,” said Jones.
Their strategy is to stay close to each other and the lifeguard stands.
“I always stick with my mom, and I don’t go jumping in the sea and start swimming,” said Asia-Lee. “I just stand up and jump over the waves.”
Lifeguards hope all families take that caution with them whenever they’re near the water.
Patrick Brafford, the Beach Lifeguard Manager for Clearwater Fire Rescue, suggests keeping an eye on your kids and swimming near lifeguards. If you don’t know how to swim, wear a life vest and never swim alone.