Community Corner

Be Water Safe on Encinitas Beaches and at the Pool

According to the Encinitas Fire/Marine Safety Department, drowning is the second leading cause of accidental death of children under 14 years of age.

By the City of Encinitas

According to the Encinitas Fire/Marine Safety Department, drowning is the second leading cause of accidental death of children under 14 years of age. The tragedy is 100% preventable.

Stay in the swim of safety by following these tips. For more information, click here.

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Encinitas lifeguards are on duty from 8:00 am until sunset during the busy summer months to help keep you safe. Nevertheless, beach visitors should take responsibility for the safety of themselves and their group, especially children. Follow these guidelines. For more information, please contact Lifeguard Headquarters at 760-633-2750 to obtain an “Encinitas Beach Safety Guide” or read it here.

  • First and foremost: Learn to swim. Teach your kids.
  • Never swim alone.
  • Never mix alcohol with water activities.
  • Follow the rules. A blackball flag designates a swimming area, in which only swimming, wading and bodyboarding are permitted.
  • If you are a novice, check with a lifeguard before you enter the water to ascertain designated swimming areas and the day’s water conditions.
  • If you are caught in a rip current, strive to stay calm. Call and/or wave for assistance. Swim parallel to shore until you are out of the rip current, then swim directly toward shore. For more information and to view daily updates on rip current conditions, visit NOAA’s National Weather Servicewww.ripcurrents.noaa.gov.
  • Never underestimate the power of the ocean. If you cannot swim an overhand stroke for at least 15 minutes, you should remain in knee-to-waist-deep water. 

At Home

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Lifeguards are on duty to protect you at the beach. At home, you’re the lifeguard!

  • If you have a pool or spa, appoint a responsible adult “Water Watcher” to supervise children at all times. Water Watcher lanyards and instructions are contained in a free Pool Safety Kit available at all Encinitas Fire Stations and at City Hall.
  • Teach children about water safety, including the best way to get out of a pool/spa quickly and what not to do, such as running near water or diving/jumping into shallow water.
  • Limit access to your pool/spa by installing a non-climbable fence that is self-closing with a latch at least 54 inches above the floor.
  • Learn CPR and swim rescue techniques.

At All Times and Places

Do not rely solely on swimming lessons and flotation devices to keep kids safe. Children (yours and others) should always be supervised when swimming.


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