Lifeguards on Beaches Not Restricted by Zone

A lifeguard from Hallandale Beach was recently fired for performing a rescue 1500 feet outside of his set zone. 

Lifeguard Tomas Lopez, 21, was fired by Ellis Management, a private company in the Orlando area that provides the lifeguards for Hallandale Beach, because his leaving his post could've caused a liability issue.

Lopez was offered his job back after it was learned that his zone was covered when he went in for the rescue.

Lifeguards in Tampa Bay don't have to face the same issues as Lopez. Lifeguards in Tampa, Clearwater and Pinellas County can make their own decisions on whether to leave their zone for a rescue attempt.

Pinellas County currently employs 25 lifeguards who work in areas of Sand Key, Fort De Soto and Fred Howards Park. There are numerous long stretches of beaches without any lifeguards that are "Swim at your own risk".

Do you think the beaches need more lifeguards? Let us know in the comments.