Image Credit: CityLand
The campaign was created after beaches have finally reopened for the summer. On July 9, the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation announced a new NYC water safety campaign. The campaign aims to inform New Yorkers about how quickly drownings can happen and remind beachgoers to only swim at designated beaches when lifeguards are on duty. The NYC Department of Parks and Recreation will also post signage and flags to identify areas where swimming is prohibited.
The campaign targets teenagers and parents, and the campaign’s advertisements are placed throughout the City on bus shelters, taxi tv, Parks beaches, and even on social media platforms.
The press release states, “Water safety is a top priority for Parks and it urges New Yorkers – regardless of their swimming ability – to be cautious and alert in and around water bodies.” The press release also contains the following “Top 10 Water Safety Tips”:
- Only swim where lifeguards are present and follow their directions
- Learn to swim
- Never leave children unattended
- Obey all posted signs and flags
- Watch for dangerous waves and rip currents
- Stay alert and aware of your surroundings
- Wear a life jacket when boating
- Don’t take unnecessary risks
- Be safe in the sun
- Know before you go
Lifeguards will be stationed at designated beaches daily from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. These designated beaches include Orchard Beach in the Bronx; Rockaway Beach in Queens; Coney Island and Manhattan Beach in Brooklyn; and South Beach, Midland Beach, Cedar Grove Beach, and Wolfe’s Pond Park Beach on Staten Island.
NYC Parks Ambassadors will continue hand out masks and encourage social distancing at these designated beaches.
By: Victoria Agosta (Victoria is the CityLaw intern and a New York Law School student, Class of 2022.)