New Dual Language Beach Safety Signs Aim to Reach More Visitors and Residents

Residents and visitors heading to the beach this Memorial Day weekend and summer will encounter new beach safety signs in two languages — English and Spanish.  

Virginia Beach EMS partnered with Virginia Beach Lifesaving Service and U.S. Coast Guard to highlight the importance of beach safety and reach more visitors and residents. 

Signs on Stands

More than 60 signs are installed on lifeguard stands at the Oceanfront and Sandbridge. The signs include a QR Code, which links to the City’s Beach Rules and Safety page. The page has a link to the oceanfront safety map that shows water hazards or advisories in real time. 

“The signs allow better language access along the Oceanfront and an ability to get the same safety information if some beachgoers don't read or speak English,” said Rob Gramkowski, EMS assistant chief – special operations. “The signs ensure we are keeping everyone as safe as we can.” 

The signs highlight the need to: 

• Be aware of when red flags are flying and that it means the water is dangerous. 
• Know how to react if caught in a rip current. The sign incorporates the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and U.S. Lifesaving Association (USLA) guidelines. 
• Swim near a lifeguard. 
• Never swim alone or leave children unsupervised. 
• Avoid the water from dusk to dawn. 

“By adding a second language, it’s inclusive and allows more people to pay attention to a warning,” said Drew Reibel, Sandbridge lifeguard supervisor. “It also allows us to effectively communicate and give information to our visitors and residents from different backgrounds.” 

Beach Safety Education

Reibel said it is essential to educate residents and visitors on the dangers of rip currents, especially visitors from out of state who may not be familiar or have experience with powerful currents.  

Red flags are also a big issue. “The sign outlines what it means when a red flag is flying and the increased risks of strong current, high surf and dangerous shorebreak,” Reibel said. “And how fast a swimmer can get swept out and cause even the most experienced swimmers to have trouble navigating the water.” 

This is why Gramkowski is encouraging beachgoers to acknowledge and read the signs when they come across the lifeguard stands. 

“Just take a second to familiarize yourself with the safety tips, especially when it comes to rip currents,” he said. “If you have any questions, don't be afraid to talk to a lifeguard.” 

Starting Memorial Day weekend, lifeguards are on duty at Sandbridge, Croatan and the Oceanfront, from 1st-89th streets. 

More Resources 

Read the City’s beach safety and rules, visit VirginiaBeach.gov/BeachRules. 

Sign up for the Beach Report, a text alert service that will help you plan your next beach day, at VirginiaBeach.gov/BeachReport. Or simply text BEACH to 67283 to enroll. 

EMS is an award-winning third-service agency that answers more than 53,000 calls for service annually. Through VB Rescue, EMS uses a combined career-volunteer workforce and was named a 2024 American Heart Association Mission: Lifeline Gold EMS Agency. Learn more about EMS by visiting ems.virginiabeach.gov. You can also contact Virginia Beach EMS at vbems@vbgov.com. 

• Beach Rules & Safety
• Beach Report