Surfers Take To The Debris-filled Waves

By Jessica Clark First Coast News

ST. JOHNS COUNTY, FL -- Joey Romer is one of the brave surfers in the waves off of Vilano Beach.

However, he has to avoid -- as best he can ? all the debris in the water.

?There are definitely some obstacles in the water, such as lumber,? Romer said. ?You?re watching out for it. Hopefully it won?t get in your way!?

The debris is mostly wooden planks, pieces of walkways that have been demolished by this week?s mighty waves and storms.

Dave Williams with St. Johns County Marine Rescue said, ?Certainly debris in the water is something to consider ? not only for swimmers and boaters, but for people who are just walking in the surf. Something can hit their legs as they?re walking by.?

Lifeguards also warn swimmers and surfers of the powerful currents that can sweep them down shore ? or close to rocks ? faster than they realize.

But for avid surfers like Romer, the opportunity outweighs the risk.

?We don?t get strong waves all the time. These are powerful waves,? Romer said. ?It?s well worth it!?

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