San Diego: City Council Approves New Beach Safety Measures

San Diego City Council Enacts Enhanced Beach Safety MeasuresSan Diego City Council Enacts Enhanced Beach Safety Measures In a bid to bolster beach safety and prevent tragedies, the San Diego City Council has unanimously approved a series of new measures. These measures are designed to address concerns raised by lifeguards, beachgoers, and the community at large. Extended Lifeguard Hours The city council has authorized the extension of lifeguard hours by an hour at both Mission Beach and Pacific Beach during the peak summer months. Lifeguards will now be on duty from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM, providing additional coverage during the busiest times of the day. Wave-Activated Flag System A wave-activated flag system will be installed at all ocean beaches in the city. The system uses sensors to measure wave height and issues flags based on safety conditions: * Green: Low-risk conditions * Yellow: Moderate-risk conditions * Red: High-risk conditions This system will allow beachgoers to quickly and easily assess the ocean conditions, helping them make informed decisions about their safety. Enhanced Lifeguard Training Lifeguards will receive additional training in areas such as: * Surf rescue techniques * Medical emergencies * Crowd management * Communication equipment This training will ensure that lifeguards are well-equipped to handle a wide range of situations that may arise on the beach. Increased Lifeguard Staff The city has allocated funding for additional lifeguard positions, increasing lifeguard staffing levels during peak hours. This will reduce the response time to emergencies and provide more eyes on the beaches. Improved Pedestrian Safety The city council has approved plans to improve pedestrian safety along beach access trails. This includes the installation of crosswalks, improved lighting, and reduced speed limits to prevent pedestrian-vehicle accidents. Increased Public Education The city will launch a public education campaign to inform beachgoers about the new safety measures and responsible beach behavior. The campaign will include: * Social media outreach * Beach safety brochures * Educational signage Community Involvement The city recognizes the importance of community involvement in beach safety. The city council has established a Beach Safety Advisory Committee to provide input and feedback on safety measures and beach operations. These new measures are a significant step towards enhancing beach safety in San Diego. By investing in extended lifeguard hours, improved training, and enhanced public education, the city is working to create a safer environment for beachgoers to enjoy the San Diego coast.