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June 23, 2009
Michelle Coats, APR
Community Information Specialist

Fourth of July beach safety tips
and fireworks regulations

As residents and visitors make plans for the Fourth of July holiday weekend, Volusia County Beach Patrol offers guidance and tips regarding fireworks, rip currents, jellyfish, parking/driving on the beach and vehicle ramps.

Fireworks

• Use and/or possession of fireworks are prohibited on Volusia County beaches.
• Law enforcement officers will confiscate fireworks immediately.
• Fireworks cannot be used on the beach or at beachfront buildings, such as businesses, hotels, condominiums or homes.
• Fireworks and litter are detrimental to beach wildlife. Fireworks create an enormous amount of trash that can be ingested by sea life and very difficult to remove from the beach. Fireworks also pose a safety hazard for beachgoers.

Rip currents

• Rip currents in the open water are always a possibility.
• Always swim in front of a lifeguard.
• Check with the lifeguard and the back of the lifeguard tower for important information about rip current activity and the rip threat level.
• Never swim alone or after consuming alcoholic beverages.

Jellyfish

• In case of a jellyfish sting, go to the nearest lifeguard tower for assistance.

Parking/driving on the beach

• Visitors should arrive early as parking fills early.
• Access and driving on the beach likely will be restricted during high tide.
• All vehicles must drive and park on the east side of the green conservation poles.
• Open vehicle ramps (Ramps are open from 8 a.m. - 7 p.m., tide permitting.)
• Ormond Beach: Harvard Avenue and Cardinal Drive
• Daytona Beach: Williams Avenue, University Boulevard, Seabreeze Boulevard, International Speedway Boulevard and Silver Beach Boulevard
• Daytona Beach Shores: Botefur Avenue, Florida Shores Boulevard, El Portal Street, Dunlawton Boulevard, Emilia Street
• Ponce Inlet: Beach Street
• New Smyrna Beach: Beachway Avenue, Flagler Avenue, 3rd Avenue and 27th Avenue

For more information, please contact Volusia County Beach Patrol at (386) 239-6414 or click here.

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