Update: 2/26 1:30 p.m.
Fort Lauderdale officials are hitting the beach and flocking to the entertainment district with spring break officially underway.
Police Chief Bill Schultz says at least three times the amount of officers will be on patrol now through mid-April, but he still reminds everyone to carry minimal cash, keep belongings close, watch drinks and be aware of surroundings.
As for the sand, tents, tables and loud music are all banned, and alcohol can only be provided by hotel concierges.
The beaches are closed at 5:30 p.m. for sweeps and cleanup.
The bar watch program, which trains bar staff and officers to identify and address potential problems, is up and running again.
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With the first spring breakers beginning to filter down to South Florida, Fort Lauderdale officials are rolling out the red carpet but are also reminding visitors there are rules that must be followed.
They include increasing police enforcement on the beach during the day and in the entertainment areas at night.
Plus, there will be beach bans on booze, coolers, tents and tables and loud music.
The spring break safety measures are already in place and run through mid-April.
Miami Beach's first round of high-impact measures start tomorrow.
They include more than $500 non-resident towing fees.
During the middle weekends of March parking garages and lots not closed will be $100, and Ocean Drive sidewalk seating will be closed.