This is the first weekend South Walton Fire District Life Guards are reporting for duty.
The guards started their beach safety program training two weeks ago in preparation for this opening weekend.
The still chilly Gulf water's aren't keeping swimmers or the guards out of the water.
"Safety issue i do have a small child and they are quick they do get away at times just having an extra set of eyes just knowing he will be protected," says South Walton Resident Robin Colletta.
"One of the biggest benefit education because we are here as people are on the beach in for them where they can swim or surf," says South Walton Lifeguard Joe Serrato.