JACKSONVILLE BEACH, Fla. – The beach is associated with beautiful weather and fun, and Jacksonville Beach is no exception; however, as summer approaches, local law enforcement is reminding visitors to prioritize their safety as they have a good time.
Sergeant Tonya Tator, a crime prevention specialist with the Jacksonville Beach Police Department, said she really wants people to focus on a simple mantra: Three beaches, one community.
“As everybody comes out with the beautiful weather...we just want the message out there to come out and have fun at our beaches, but be responsible when you do and follow all the rules and regulations,” she said.
She is also aware of the increased likelihood that people who come to the beach are looking to enjoy a few alcoholic beverages, noting that when temperatures rise, people may drink a little more than they normally do, which increases the demand for responsible behavior.
“When you get hot, you tend to drink a little bit more than you might usually,” Tator said. “We want you to be responsible. Adults have a right to come out and have some good drinks, but be responsible about it and make sure you get a safe ride home if you’ve had a little bit too much to drink.”
Finally, the topic of safety steered toward the use of e-bikes, which has generated some conversation locally after cities have begun examining how to regulate their use.
“E-bikes are really popular now, it seems like they’re trading out bicycles for e-bikes now,” Tator noted. “They have to adhere, just like bicycles, to the state laws. That means they have to stop at stop signs, they have to yield to pedestrians.”
Tator also said e-bikes are technically not allowed on the beach, but when they’re on the road, she urged adults to ensure that their children wear helmets when operating them.
“Please wear helmets, particularly for kids,” she said. “Adults, lead by example, explain to your kids the importance of adhering to the traffic laws, of stopping, and make sure they have a properly fitted helmet.”
For those looking to get their helmets properly fitted, the Jacksonville Beach Police Department offers resources to help children get fitted properly, effectively reducing their chances at suffering a major injury.
