What South Jersey Beachgoers Need To Know As Summer Weather Continues

As someone who has lived or vacationed at the New Jersey shore for most of my life, one of my favorite times of year is that intersection between the end of South Jersey Summer Season and what many year-round residents refer to as "Locals Summer".

When the kids have to go back to school, and the young adults have to leave for college or other jobs, the vibe changes at the Jersey Shore. The year-round residents spend more time on the beaches, and second home owners return to their shore houses for Labor Day Weekend through September.

But just because the crowds are changing doesn't mean you shouldn't be any less vigilant with beach safety. I have already noticed when I was in the ocean last weekend how intense the undercurrent has gotten, and that is one of the many variables impacting life at the Jersey Shore.

Experts Issue Public Safety Announcements For Beachgoers in August and September

An often overlooked impact on the final weeks of the summer season is losing personnel for the South Jersey Beach Patrols. This is why many Jersey Shore communities are issuing PSAs about beach and ocean safety for the next several weeks.

"As we get toward the end of the summer season and into locals’ summer, it’s easy to let our guard down. The beaches are a little quieter, the crowds are smaller, the water is still warm, and sometimes we forget just how quickly the ocean can change," says Ventnor City Beach Patrol Chief David Funk when I spoke with him this week.

"We’re still seeing strong currents and challenging conditions this time of year, even on days when the water may look calm. Our biggest message to everyone is simple: please swim in front of a lifeguard. If you have children with you, keep a close eye on them anytime they are in or around the water. Children should never be in the ocean without an adult actively watching them. It only takes a moment for a situation to change, and a little extra attention can make all the difference."

Avalon Beach Patrol Chief Matt Wolf echoed these same concerns when I spoke with him:

"Even the best swimmers can get a cramp, and if you are out there alone, or without a flotation device, and without emergency communication, disaster can strike. Our workforce is reduced this time of year because of schools starting early, but the guards we have are highly trained, and (on duty) for a reason. In Avalon, we plan to have every available beach (with lifeguards on duty) until Labor Day, (so remember): Swim in front of a lifeguard!"

South Jersey Lifeguards are some of the best athletes in the region, and are highly-trained to step into action for rescues and emergencies. This is why The Locker Room Billy Schweim has been covering the Lifeguard Competitions at the Jersey Shore for over a decade on 973 ESPN Radio South Jersey, along with live broadcasts of the South Jersey Lifeguard Championships each year.

In fact, VCBP Chief David Funk is a nine-time winner as a competitor in the South Jersey Lifeguard Championships. Also, Matt Wolf has been Avalon Beach Patrol's Chief when they won the 2024 and 2025 South Jersey Lifeguard Champions Team Competition.

So enjoy the final weeks of the summer season, and the sunny days on the beach.  I know I will squeeze in as many days I can out of the studio and on the beach until Eagles season begins!

But don't forget about beach safety. VCBP Chief Funk says the lifeguards are here to help in a variety of ways:

"If you’re not sure what the (ocean) conditions are like or where the nearest guarded beach is, reach out to your local Beach Patrol. We’re always happy to talk with you about the conditions, and let you know where lifeguards are on duty. You can also check your local Beach Patrol’s social media pages for updates on beach and ocean conditions, guarded locations, and other important information. When in doubt, ask a lifeguard; We’re always happy to help, and a simple conversation can go a long way toward keeping everyone safe."