SEASIDE, Fla. --- The South Walton Fire District (SWFD) and SEASIDE® are proud to announce their partnership to provide professional beach lifeguard services for SEASIDE® homeowners and vacation guests beginning March 11, 2025.

The contractual agreement for services was finalized following discussions between the two entities about the critical need for enhancing beach safety within SEASIDE® after the closure of the Van Ness Butler Regional Beach Access in 2024.

“The closure unfortunately created a three-mile gap between our lifeguard towers in Seagrove Beach and Grayton Beach,” said SWFD Fire Chief Ryan Crawford. “SEASIDE® has stepped up to provide its residents and visitors with lifeguard protection, which allows us to more effectively prevent and respond to emergencies in an area with a historically high call volume.”

The beach will be staffed daily, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., during the 2025 Beach Safety Season, which includes extended hours during peak times.

“Our goal is to provide peace of mind for everyone who enjoys our beaches, knowing that professional lifeguards are on duty to keep them safe," said Kevin Boyle, Seaside Community Development Corp. General Manager. "I have the utmost respect for Beach Safety Director David Vaughan, Fire Chief Ryan Crawford, and Fire Marshal Sammy Sanchez for their unwavering dedication to protecting our community. Their leadership has been instrumental in making this agreement possible, and we are grateful for their partnership. We also applaud Alys Beach, Rosemary Beach, Sandestin, and others for paving the way with similar agreements, setting a strong precedent for proactive beach safety measures across our region.”

SWFD and SEASIDE® encourage those visiting the beach to swim near a lifeguard and follow the beach flag warning system. For more beach safety information, follow SWFD on social media or visit www.swfd.org.