Increased Shark Patrols For Holiday Weekend At LI Beaches: Hochul

LONG ISLAND, NY — As Long Islanders will converge on area beaches for the Fourth of July weekend, the state is taking measures to monitor for sharks.

Last week, a woman was bitten on the leg in Jones Beach. Officials from the New York State Parks believe it may have been a shark.

Across Long Island, Governor Hochul announced on Wednesday, the addition of six drones for a total of 28 drones at beaches.

• Trained eight new drone pilots among operations staff, lifeguards and Park Police
• Assigned one large enterprise drone to Park Police with thermal imaging, laser range finding and high-quality cameras to allow for night-time surveillance and patrols in adverse weather conditions.

On Monday, Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman said they are "increasing our patrols on the ocean, as we do every summer." Patrols include helicopters and drones.

“Our Long Island State Park beaches are cherished by New Yorkers and visitors alike — perfect places to get offline, get outside and enjoy the outdoors.” Hochul said. “We are continuing to strengthen our shark surveillance capabilities and safety tactics at these beaches to help protect these treasured summertime traditions."