New rescue tube installed at Perdido Key boosts beach safety

R. Ken Cooper • August 27, 2023

Installation of Rescue Tube at Perdido Key Public Access #4: A Step Toward Enhanced Beach Safety

Perdido Key, Fla. – (OBA) – On Saturday, August 26, Escambia County District 1 Commissioner Jeff Bergosh, District 2 Commissioner Mike Kohler, and Public Safety Director Eric Gilmore marked the installation of a rescue tube at Perdido Key Public Access #4. The initiative was made possible through the efforts of the Perdido Key Rotary Club.

As beachgoers enjoy the public amenities at Perdido Key, they are advised to exercise caution while swimming. The newly installed rescue tube serves as a vital safety measure for swimmers. In case of a water emergency, the rescue tube can be employed to assist a struggling swimmer. It is strongly recommended that individuals dial 911 before utilizing the rescue tube for rescue operations. Beachgoers are urged to familiarize themselves with the usage of the rescue tube and to ALWAYS call emergency services by dialing 911 before attempting a water rescue.

About the Perdido Key Rotary Club

The Perdido Key Rotary Club is a community-focused organization that has been actively involved in various local initiatives aimed at enhancing the quality of life in the Perdido Key area. Known for its commitment to service, the club has spearheaded numerous projects, from educational programs to environmental conservation efforts. The installation of the rescue tube at Perdido Key Public Access #4 is the latest in a series of endeavors aimed at promoting public safety and well-being. The club's active engagement in such community projects underscores its dedication to making Perdido Key a safer and more enjoyable place for residents and visitors alike.

About the Rescue Tube Foundation

The rescue tube is part of a broader program run by the Rescue Tube Foundation. The organization is committed to reducing the number of drowning deaths globally by providing Public Access Rescue Tubes. These tubes are designed to protect rescuers in recreational waters and are available 24/7, 365 days a year. The foundation advises that it is always best to swim near a lifeguard, but in their absence, rescue tubes serve as a crucial safety net. Source

Additional Information

The Rescue Tube Foundation was founded in 2010 in Kaua‘i, Hawaii, with a mission to diminish the number of drowning deaths by providing Public Access Rescue Tube stations in recreational water areas. Currently, there are 600 tubes installed throughout Hawaii, the U.S. Mainland, and Canada. The tubes are designed to provide buoyancy for up to three adults at a time. More than 200 uses of rescue tubes have been recorded, and an estimated 30 drownings may have been prevented by their use.

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