900 social distancing warnings issued to beachgoers in Volusia County

Officials provide information to keep people safe

Volusia County Beach

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – Officials issued around 900 verbal social distancing warnings to people during the first weekend that Volusia County’s beaches, including Daytona Beach, were largely reopened for almost all activities.

“For the most part, beachgoers spaced out and kept groups small,” Ray Manchester, Volusia County Beach Safety director, said Monday during a briefing.

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While the beautiful weather drew crowds to the beaches, most people complied with the spacing rules, Manchester said. He added that the heaviest crowds were near large, off-beach parking lots and hotels that have reopened.

In addition to warnings, lifeguards made about 100 water rescues over the weekend.

The warnings don’t necessarily mean citations or fines for breaking the rules. By and large, the verbal warnings are issued by megaphone to remind people to space out a little more.

“When I say we issued warnings,” said Manchester, “What that means is we provided information and education to keep people safe and healthy.”

So far, the county isn't allowing vehicles back on the beaches. Officials say they are working on a plan.

“Beach driving will eventually be permitted when it’s safe to do so,” said county spokesman Kevin Captain told The Daytona Beach News-Journal.


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