Take the usual precautions when visiting Daytona Beach. Don't leave valuables unattended in your car or at the beach, and don't walk on the beach alone in unlit areas at night. Do be aware that on some stretches of the beach you are sharing the sand with motor vehicles—look before you run to catch a football or a Frisbee. Lifeguard towers are stationed along the beach year-round. It's advisable to swim directly in front of a lifeguard. Never leave your drink alone in a restaurant or bar, and be aware of your surroundings. Call 911 to report any crime.
The state of Florida provides assistance with alligator threats. The toll-free number is 866-492-4286. For more information, visit http://myfwc.com/gators/faq/lwa.htm.
Daytona Beach Police Department is located at 990 Orange Ave. Phone 386-671-5100. http://dbpd.us.
Dos & Don'ts
Do wear seat belts. The state of Florida requires everyone in the car to wear seat belts at all times.
Don't ever approach or feed an alligator. It's rare to see one wandering the streets, but if you are trekking through the wetlands or sitting by a lake, you may encounter them. Not only is it dangerous to feed an alligator, it's also illegal. Visit Salty Dog Surf Shop to see alligators on display in a tank instead.
Do help sea turtles by respecting their natural habitat, the beach. Avoid shining bright lights on the beach at night, which causes turtles to lose their way. If you see a turtle laying eggs, leave it alone.
Don't drink alcoholic beverages on the beach.
Do wear a helmet when riding a motorcycle—even though the law no longer requires it—especially during bike festivals when there are a lot of bikers on the roads.
Don't walk or run on the sand dunes. They are more fragile than they look, and your presence will cause more erosion.
Do remember that anything thrown into the ocean hasn't gone away. Find appropriate disposal containers for such things as cigarette butts or gum wrappers. Channel your tossing energies into throwing Frisbies at the water's edge.
