The Destin Rotary Club, in partnership with the City of Destin and the Rescue Tube Foundation, installed 8 rescue tubes at various public beach access points in Destin on February 15, 2025.
- The Destin City Council unanimously approved the plan for installation during a September 2024 meeting, aiming to enhance water safety for residents and visitors alike.
“Drownings are the third leading cause of unintentional deaths worldwide,” said Dion Moniz of the Destin Rotary Club during his presentation to the council last year. “These aren’t meant to replace lifeguards. These are meant to supplement lifeguards.”
Moniz cited statistics showing that over 600 rescue tubes are currently in use, with more than 200 known successful rescues and zero deaths when the tubes have been deployed.
The system consists of a 12-foot post buried 4 feet in the sand, with a flotation device attached. In an emergency, a rescuer can quickly remove the tube and use it to support up to three adults in the water.
- The tubes have an expected lifespan of two to three years in the Florida sun, with occasional repairs needed for damaged straps or other wear and tear. Maintenance of the tubes will be a collaborative effort between the Rotary Club and the city staff.
The Rotary Club has also expressed interest in eventually expanding the program to private beach areas and condominiums.
Public education efforts to ensure beachgoers are aware of the rescue tubes and how to use them properly in emergency situations are forthcoming from the city and Rotary Club.
