Previous Artwork:
Unconditional Surrender Satire
Beach Lifeguard Stands
Sarasota County Lifeguards have some of the safest beaches in the State of Florida. The Lifeguard staff training includes passing biannual qualification testing and becoming First Responder Certified. Skilled professionals are now responsible for public safety at six beaches spread over a 35-mile area of the Gulf Coast. From north to south these beaches are: Lido, Siesta, Nokomis, North Jetty, Venice and Manasota.
BEACH FLAGS
Gulf water temperatures continue to rise as summer gets into full swing. Remember to use sunscreen liberally and to reapply it as needed throughout the day. To avoid dehydration be certain to have plenty of water/sports drinks available. Beach flags provide information on swimming conditions:
- green - good swimming conditions
- yellow - use caution
- red - dangerous swimming conditions
- double red - beach is closed to swimming
- purple -hazardous marine life
Check beach conditions prior to heading to the beach by visiting visitbeaches.org or if you have questions about beach conditions speak with one of our lifeguards. Warmer water can also mean stingrays so remember to use the "stingray shuffle" when moving through the water.
Beach Swimming Safety Tips
- Always try to swim in lifeguard-protected areas.
- Never swim alone.
- Check the swimming condition flag before entering the water.
- Don't overestimate your swimming ability.
- Never depend on a flotation device for safety.
- Swim parallel to the shore.
- Stay off and away from swim buoys.
- Keep a safe distance from rock jetties.
- Never dive headfirst when entering water.
- Duck under breaking waves.
- If you are in trouble, call and wave for help.
Rip currents are one of the most dangerous water conditions that can develop along our coastline.
Components of Rip Currents
- Head - rip spreads out and weakens
- Neck - actual rip or river of water
- Feeders - supply source for the rip
How to Escape from Rip Currents
Swim parallel to shore until you are out of the current or float until the current dissipates then swim diagonally to shore.
If in doubt, stay out!
Artist
Liviana Joppich
Liviana is a young, beginning artist from North Port, FL. She is self-taught at many things including sports, music, and art. She has a busy mind and a wildly optimistic heart. She is never sitting still long enough to be bored or boring. Livi and her friend Bethany (both 11 years old) worked seamlessly together to envision and create their rendition of this popular Siesta Key scene. All that they could need to bring it to life was provided for them through this well organized event. They admired the art created by other local, amateur and world-class and experienced artists and overall had a uniquely positive, and creative experience.
Siesta Key Beach and Lifeguard Stand