Nassau County is not taking any chances with its beachgoers' safety at Jones Beach. In the wake of a recent shark bite incident, officials are beefing up security measures, particularly around shark surveillance. Last week's encounter left a woman with injuries after a likely run-in with a young sand tiger shark while she was swimming in waist-deep water. In response, Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman is overseeing the deployment of drones, helicopters, and the Marine Bureau Boat to maintain vigilance off the coast. "Our aim is to keep all beachgoers safe whilst they enjoy the sun, sea, and the Independence Day celebrations," Blakeman stated according to News12 Long Island.
Local authorities are also looking to provide tips to swiftly respond to rip currents and other ocean dangers. Veteran lifeguard Cary Epstein, in a statement obtained by ABC7NY, advises those caught in a rip current "to flip and float; stay calm, flip onto your back." However, the community seems to generally understand the inherent risks of the ocean. "If I see that there are warnings, I stay away," said West Islip resident Richard Haimes in a statement obtained by News12 Long Island, acknowledging that sharks are part of their natural marine ecosystem and that people should respect their territory.
With these enhanced safety measures, visitors can expect a significant law enforcement presence at Jones Beach this holiday. New York State Parks Regional Director George Gorman mentioned the deployment of trucks to block off certain areas and the addition of cement blocks along the boardwalk. "Any vehicle that has bad intentions will be able to be blocked so we keep the public as safe as we possibly can," Gorman told ABC7NY. Surveillance cameras are another layer added to the comprehensive safety plan, along with drones to monitor the waters.
Meanwhile, the future of shark safety at Long Island beaches might look to technology. Dr. Craig O’Connell, executive director of Montauk Shark Lab, is in the late stages of developing a "shark excursion barrier." This device, which is currently being trialed off Cape Cod and Montauk, aims to keep sharks away without harming them. "I wanted to develop something that doesn't kill sharks, something that protects marine life and keeps people and sharks separate," O’Connell discussed his motivations with News12 Long Island.
