During this unprecedented time, we have seen an increase in citizens and visitors using the Huntington Harbour waterways and beaches. The weather has been warm and we understand that both citizens and visitors want to get outside to enjoy the fresh air, get in the water, and actively recreate but we need everyone to do it safely.
Unfortunately, we have noticed a trend that is not popular among first responders and residents in the area, the lack of safety and respect to private property. Increased bridge jumping has been reported, climbing onto private docks, life jacket rules not being followed while using paddleboards and kayaks, and standard water safety rules not being followed.
In an effort to reduce the lack of safety by Harbour visitors, the Huntington Beach Fire Department’s Marine Safety Division will begin staffing Marine Safety Officers and Lifeguards to patrol the area and increase public safety and education. In over 25 years, the Harbour has not been normally staffed but due to the increase of visitors using the area and the lack of safety – it is of extreme importance to educate and maintain a level of safety for all patrons.
At this time, we are asking all residents and visitors in the Huntington Harbour area for compliance to keep both adults and youth safe while enjoying the beautiful Huntington Harbour area. Please read and understand the rules and safety messages prior to enjoying the beautiful area:
RULES:
- No person shall dive, jump or enter into the water from or immediately in front of any bridge, pier, wharf, dock, float, bulkhead, seawall, groin, jetty, natural rock formations or any other place, or object not specifically designated for the purpose of diving, jumping or entering into the water. (HBMC 13.40.030)
- Swim in approved marked zones (HBMC 13.40.020)
- Do not climb onto private boats (HBMC 13.36.110)
- Do not climb onto private docks (HBMC 13.40.030)
SAFETY:
- Every child under 13 years of age on a moving recreational vessel of any length must wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket. (Life Jacket Information)
- If you are greater than 13 years of age we highly recommend wearing a Coast Guard-approved Life Jacket while on any moving recreational vessel. (Life Jacket Information)
- Understand your swimming capability and your limits being on the water
- Be aware of your surroundings – Boats, Kayakers, Paddleboarders, and Swimmers
- Do not dive into the water
- Understand the Rules of the Waterways
- Understand the ABCs of California Boating
- Understand the Laws and Regulations for Kayakers and Paddleboarders
If the rules are not followed and voluntary compliance cannot be achieved while visiting the Huntington Harbour beaches and waterways, the Huntington Beach Police Department will be notified and patrons not compliant with the rules may be cited.
We want visitors and residents to the area to be safe and it starts with you–understanding the rules, how to use the waterways safely, and respecting private property. We thank you for your compliance and if you have any questions feel free to seek out someone from Marine Safety in our Harbour or call 714-536-5411.
