NEW YORK CITY (WABC) — With Memorial Day Weekend ushering in the unofficial start of the summer season, New York City beaches are officially open to the public.
All beaches are free and, as of Saturday, open to the public.
Despite staffing issues, lifeguards will be on duty every day from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m.
Of course, as millions are expected to hit NYC’s eight beaches this season, officials stress safety for those going into the water.
“Strengthening water safety is on our minds, we want to go through this summer with zero drownings and that’s going to take a collective effort of our community looking out for each other,” said Queens Assembly Member Khaleel Anderson.
The Parks Department issued a warning on Friday for people who plan on going for a swim.
“We have an obligation to make sure we all are good stewards of this beach to continue to promote the message of not swimming — do not swim without lifeguards on duty,” said Queens Borough President Donovan Richards.
Officials urge visitors to pay attention to signs on the beach that indicate dangerous areas.
You can also protect your skin with free sunscreen in dispensers near all beach restrooms.
QUIZ | Which NYC beach are you?
Beach season also means the kickoff to summer tourism in Coney Island.
Several attractions are open for the season, including Dino’s Wonder Wheel, Luna Park, Coney Island Aquarium, Nathan’s Hot Dogs, the boardwalk, and minor league baseball.
It also happens to be the 100-year anniversary for the Riegelmann Coney Island Boardwalk.
The beach season ends on Sept. 10, which is the Sunday after Labor Day.
Watch “Kickoff to a Long Island Summer” Saturday, May 27 at 7 p.m. on Channel 7 and wherever you stream ABC7NY
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