Are we doing enough?
CREDIT: Peter O’Connor
PETER O’CONNOR
Contributing Columnist
opinion@lbknews.com
The sad news from Anna Maria Island recently of further loss of life occurred off the beaches. These drownings were reported to be the result of persons caught in rip currents. These are dangerous beachfront phenomena.
As none of our beaches on Longboat Key are lifeguard protected, one wonders if we are doing enough to protect beachgoers—residents, visitors and tourists alike. Our beaches are beautiful, well maintained and enjoyed by many. We post the correct signs as you can see. And we have been fortunate in the past.
Should we as a town consider the safety of the bathing public as we do the grain size and color of the sand beneath their feet?
For those interested in learning more, there is an excellent short primer at www.ripcurrents.noaa.gov. Check it out. Swim safely.
