With the peak travel season and the arrival of the hot summer days, the number of people swimming at the beach has significantly increased. Following the recent tragic incidents of two girls drowning at Coney Island and two boys at Far Rockaway, the New York City government is urging everyone to swim at the beach during lifeguard hours and be aware of underwater currents.
On July 9th (Tuesday), Mayor Eric Adams expressed his sorrow over the recent drowning incidents at a press conference, saying, “I felt deeply saddened at the funeral this morning. It’s a heartbreaking moment when two children pass away in this manner.”
Mayor Adams stated that they hope to implement joint measures to enhance beach safety, advising people to swim during lifeguard hours and instructing the beach department to strengthen safety education, raising awareness about the safety signs lifeguards use.
In order to prevent such tragedies, the city government has announced plans to increase the number of lifeguards along New York’s 14-mile coastline to 800 this year. They will introduce new measures, revamping the lifeguard contract system to provide better treatment for lifeguards hired and trained for beach parks, including increased wages. This initiative is expected to continue into the next year.
Currently, lifeguards are on duty until 6 p.m., and both the New York City Police Department and the Fire Department have drones patrolling the beaches. The police drones will patrol until 8 p.m., while the fire department drones will continue until 9 p.m. Additionally, the Parks Enforcement Patrol (PEP) will be on site, alerting the public to swimming risks.
According to information released by the city government, beach tourism is highly popular this summer, with approximately 800,000 visitors to New York beaches during the recent July 4th to 7th Independence Day holiday period.
Furthermore, the city government advises visitors, “Every parent should educate their children about the dangers of the ocean. The sea may appear cool and comfortable, but it can be deceiving; there are strong currents once you are in the water.”
On the same day, the New York City Police Department issued a reminder to encourage beachgoers to promptly report any accidents. “Those who come to the beach for leisure this summer will see police patrols. We ask you to stay hydrated, secure your belongings, and continue being the vigilant New Yorkers that speak up!”