ATLANTIC BEACH, Fla. -- Hot weather didn't stop the July 4 festivities at Jacksonville's beaches. The celebration continued well into the evening, despite city official's cancelation of the annual fireworks display.
After thousands spent the day resting on the beach, some took it upon themselves to set off their own fireworks along the water even though many forms of fireworks are illegal in Duval County.
Unfortunately, many didn't bother removing the evidence by cleaning up after themselves, and volunteers have been left with the dirty work.
"I've lived here all my life," said Erin Rodriguez, a third generation beach resident. "I joined in the fun yesterday, and now I feel like I should help somehow.
Rodriguez told Action News she worries about what kind of impression the leftovers will leave.
"There are a lot of tourists in town this time of year, and I want them to leave believing this is a beautiful place - not trashy."
The other concern was for wildlife, like sea turtles.
"The clear plastic gets into the water and looks like jellyfish," said representatives from the Beaches Sea Turtle Patrol. "Jellyfish are a main source of food for turtles and plastic will absolutely kill them."
Jacksonville is in the midst of sea turtle season with the first Atlantic Beach nest expected to hatch very soon.
The City of Jacksonville helped organize the clean up efforts which will continue through 11 AM. Visit one of the following locations to register. Volunteers under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Organizers suggest you wear sturdy shoes and sunscreen, and bring a bottle of water, as temperatures are expected to be very high by late morning.
7 AM - 9 AM
Atlantic Blvd. on the ocean, Atlantic Beach Beach Blvd. on the ocean, Jacksonville Beach 16th Ave. South on the ocean, Jacksonville Beach
9 AM - 11 AM
Seawalk Pavilion, First Street, Jacksonville Beach
