TREASURE ISLAND, Fla. — With spring break well underway in Tampa Bay, Treasure Island police are getting the word out about a spot they say poses a particular risk all year long: The area under the John’s Pass Bridge.
“We have a lot of juveniles yearly that like to jump off the bridge, and we understand that they mean well, that they’re trying to have fun,” said TIPD Marine Patrol Officer Cody Malander. “They don’t realize it’s not only a city ordinance and a state law that you’re prohibited from jumping from any public bridges, but it’s also a danger.”
Malander said part of the issue is water depth: While high tide can bring depths of 5-6 feet, low tide levels are around 2-3 feet.
“If they’re jumping on a low tide, you’d be jumping into two feet of water and probably the better part of a 30-foot drop,” said Malander.
He said the consequences in that scenario can be devastating.
“Everything from superficial injuries to, we’ve had broken bones and permanent, disabling injuries like spinal fractures,” Malander said.
A city spokesperson said TIPD responded to 18 calls at the bridge within the last year for juvenile trouble, water rescues, or people jumping from the bridge. That does not include instances where officers responded and people may have left the scene.
Malander said water levels aren’t the only danger.
“The current is very strong in our incoming and outgoing tides, and people don’t realize that when they jump off the bridge that in a matter of a few seconds, you could be sitting out here at the waterline, the mile markers, that you’re 500-1,000 feet out from shore in just a few seconds,” he said.
Malander urged visitors and residents alike to know the local waterways, know the rules, and know the laws to stay safe during spring break and all year long. He said people can also reach out to local law enforcement to learn about safe places to swim and enjoy the water.
Sarah Blazonis
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