MIRAMAR BEACH, Fla. --- A coordinated search effort between local agencies late Saturday evening following a 911 call for a water rescue resulted in the reunification of a man with his family.

The call originated around 8:15 p.m. near Windancer Lane in Miramar Beach and involved one person who was reportedly in distress in the Gulf, approximately 500 yards from shore. The adult man was also reportedly clinging to a flotation device.

Walton County Sheriff’s Office and South Walton Fire District units responded to the scene, where they requested the response of SWFD’s off-duty lifeguards, a drone pilot, and assistance from the United States Coast Guard.

The search efforts continued for two hours before the individual was located in the Gulf by the Coast Guard several miles east of the original call location. The adult male did not have any immediate medical needs and was transported to the Coast Guard Station in Destin for reunification with his family.

Beach flags were yellow and purple at the time of the call, indicating moderate hazards with stinging marine life present.

As SWFD’s call volume begins to escalate on the beach, this event serves as an important reminder of the following Beach Safety tips:

• Always swim near a lifeguard during on-duty hours (10 a.m. – 6 p.m.)
• Consider taking a flotation device when entering the water, young children can benefit
• similarly from life jackets
• Swim to your limits in the open water- anyone who is not a strong swimmer should stay
• onshore
• Know your exact location and address in the event emergency services needs to be
• notified
• Be aware of surf conditions, text SAFETY to 31279 for daily flag updates