As the 2024 Pensacola Beach season approaches, the Santa Rosa Island Authority, Escambia County Public Safety and the Rotary Club of Pensacola are proud to announce a collaborative effort aimed at enhancing water safety on Pensacola Beach.
Through the installation of rescue tubes at strategic locations along the beach, this initiative seeks to provide additional support to beachgoers and first responders in times of need.
“The project comes at a pivotal time as our community prepares for the influx of visitors during Spring Break and the upcoming beach season,” said Leigh Davis, Executive Director of the SRIA.
In partnership with ECPS, the SRIA has identified five key locations for the installation of rescue tubes:
- Virtual Mile Marker #30
- Walkover #28B
- Walkover #25B
- Walkover #22B
- Walkover #21E
These rescue tubes, similar to those already in place at Perdido Key and Navarre Beach, serve as crucial safety equipment offering available assistance to individuals in distress while awaiting the arrival of professional help.
"We are thrilled to be part of this collaborative effort to enhance water safety on Pensacola Beach," said Charles Beall, president of Pensacola Rotary. "By working together with the SRIA and Escambia County, we are taking proactive steps to ensure the well-being of beachgoers and residents alike."
The installation of the rescue tubes is scheduled to take place on Friday, March 8, at 9 a.m. Members of Pensacola Rotary, the SRIA and Escambia Public Works will be working together to install the posts and signs along the island.
"We believe that this project will make a significant difference in ensuring the safety of individuals enjoying our beautiful beaches," said Dave Greenwood, Escambia County Water Safety Chief. "By strategically placing these rescue tubes, we aim to provide an added layer of protection and support for our community."
As preparations continue for the installation, the SRIA encourages beachgoers and residents to familiarize themselves with the locations of the rescue tubes and adhere to the beach flag warning system, prioritizing water safety at all times.
Pensacola Beach is owned by Escambia County, Fla., and is under the direction of the Santa Rosa Island Authority (SRIA). The SRIA was created by the Florida legislature in 1947 under Chapter 24500. The SRIA does not receive tax support from the taxpayers of the county. It is fully funded from lease fees collected from business and residences on the beach. The SRIA board is made up of six members; five are named by members of the Escambia County Board of Commissioners whose term is the same as the commissioner who appointed them. Registered voters on Pensacola Beach elect the sixth member. The elected member’s term is two years.
