Health Department text alerts can keep beachgoers updated

Let the beach text you this summer.

That’s right. With the New York City Health Department’s “Know Before You Go” campaign up and running, New Yorkers or out-of-towners planning to visit any of the city’s eight public beaches can get free text alerts when a beach is open or closed, as well as info on weather conditions or updates regarding water quality issues.

By texting the words, “BEACH” or “PLAYA” to 877877, subscribers will receive the status of any of the eight public beaches in the city.

“New York City’s beaches are a favorite destination for millions of residents and tourists every year,” said Health Commissioner Dr. Mary Bassett. “The Health Department’s texting service will offer up-to-date information on water quality conditions, allowing New Yorkers to plan ahead and helping to ensure that everyone’s trip to the beach is a safe one.”

According to the  Health Department, New York City has more than 15 miles of beach access at the eight public and 15 private beaches. The  Health Department is responsible for beach surveillance and routinely monitoring the water quality at all public beaches and regularly testing it to make sure it’s safe for swimming.