Swim and Boat Safely During Memorial Day Holiday Weekend

Enjoy the beach or boat safely this Memorial Day holiday weekend.

Keep in mind these swimming and boating safety tips from Clearwater Fire & Rescue and Clearwater Police:

Swim safety:

• Have a swim buddy. If you have a partner, you can help each other or go for help.
• Pay attention to beach warnings. Red flags mean a high surf or strong current.
• Swim out of a current. If you feel like you’re getting swept away, don’t panic or try to fight the current. Swim with the current parallel to the beach, gradually making your way back to shore.
• Don't forget to do the . Slide your feet from side to side in the sand to avoid stepping on any stingrays.

Boat safety:

• Always wear a life jacket. Whether on a boat or other personal watercraft.
• Keep a safe distance. Don’t get too close to other boats, swimmers or marine life.
• Stay in touch. Before going, let someone know where you are going and for how long.
• Operate personal watercraft responsibly. Weaving through congested traffic, jumping the wake of another vessel unreasonably close or swerving at the last possible moment to avoid collision is classified as reckless operation of a vessel and is a first-degree misdemeanor.