Funding for the renewal of the South Walton Fire District’s Beach Safety contract was approved at the Walton County Board of County Commissioners monthly meeting held on Tuesday January 8, 2019.
Walton County’s commitment to beach safety began in 2006 and for the past 13 years, the South Walton Fire District has been the sole provider of this important beach safety program.
According to a press release, the South Walton Fire District will continue to serve as the beach safety and lifeguard service provider for the Beaches of South Walton for the next four years.
In addition to coverage from March 1-September 30, the Beach Safety Program has expanded to:
- Provide an extra month of full season coverage from September 30- October 31.
- Provide 5 Full-time salaried employees to ensure year-round protection from November through February.
- Purchase new All-Terrain Vehicles, 2 additional Rescue Jet skis, and 3 light duty service trucks.
Shortly after the announcement the Walton County TDC released the following statement in support of the contract renewal:
“From our point of view, this extension is a great step for South Walton, reflecting the increase in visitation that we have seen over recent years. As we work to strengthen the local economy by encouraging visitation during the shoulder seasons, that success also makes it necessary for us to continue to support and increase amenities that benefit locals and visitors alike.
The South Walton Fire District’s Beach Safety Division is currently accepting applications for the SWFD 2019 Lifeguard Season.
