Lauderdale-by-the-Sea Considers Lifeguards After Tragic Sand Hole Incident

Following the death of a 7-year-old girl trapped in a sand hole, Lauderdale-by-the-Sea debates the addition of lifeguards and beach safety measures.

7-year-old Sloan Mattingly died after being trapped in a sand hole while visiting Lauderdale-by-the-Sea with her family from Indiana.
The town commission is discussing employing lifeguards and reviewing beach ordinances to prevent similar tragedies.
The debate on whether to have lifeguards has been ongoing since the 1980s, with financial concerns being a major obstacle.
Residents and officials express mixed feelings about the necessity and affordability of lifeguards, despite the recent tragedy.
A public safety campaign and potential ordinance changes are being considered to educate visitors and prevent future accidents.