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Thousands of people headed to South Padre Island to celebrate the Fourth of July holiday this weekend.
Four people have drowned there this summer but city leaders said that they took action there this weekend.
Since there are no lifeguards on duty at the beach, they implemented a three-day program to test a proposed water rescue program.
The new initaitive will allow South Padre Island firefighters skilled at water rescues to patrol the beach in all-terrain vehicles.
city leaders said it gives rescuers faster access to any swimmer in distress and will help save lives.
Many visiting the beach over holiday weekend said they were pleased to see the beach patrol.
"It makes you want to come back and spend your money here if you know someone is going to be there to help you," said tourist Bill Iles.
Authorities said Island visitors still need to pay attention to a flag advisory system designed to warns swimmers of dangerous conditions.
Flag advisories:
Red: heavy surf and dangerous rip currents
Yellow: calm to moderate water but does not mean the water is safe
Blue: presence of venomous marine life
Authorities told Action 4 News that the absence of flags does not assure the water is safe.
They urge always using caution while in the water.
