ST. JOHNS COUNTY, Fla. - Lifeguards will be at full staffing levels on beaches in St. Johns County today as thousands of people head to the beach for Independence Day.

According to St. Johns County Fire Rescue spokesman, Jeremy Robshaw, the county has scheduled the same number of lifeguards for the Fourth as they would for a busy Saturday or Sunday in the summer.  In addition, they have fire crews on standby in case of a water or medical emergency.  

"We don't anticipate much surf activity, but that doesn't mean conditions are safe," explained Robshaw.  "Just because there's yellow flags, doesn't mean it's safe to go swim way out in the ocean.  Certainly know your limitations.  Swim near a lifeguard and if you have questions about the conditions, that's what they're there for.  Feel free to ask them."

First Coast News