Lobster. Whether it’s a date night splurge or a tasty treat, we can’t seem to get enough of it. Lucky for Floridians, lobster mini season is a two-day period where diving for lobster is legal from Wednesday to Thursday of July 24th and 25th.
There is a 12 lobster per person limit in Florida, whereas Biscayne National Park and Monroe County hold firm on a 6 per person limit.
Along with diving for lobster comes the precautions that must be taken to ensure diver’s safety, as even the most experienced divers can face danger.
According to the Sun Sentinel, on the past Wednesday of July 24th, a 23-year, experienced diver Peter Mendez was found dead offshore from the Hillsboro Inlet. Authorities believe foul play is not suspected, but the Broward County Medical Examiner’s Office is further investigating.
While no other fatalities were reported, on Thursday morning the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office reported a lobster diver who was injured by a boat propeller and brought ashore to Conch Key. The injuries to the man’s leg and foot were not life threatening, but Official’s have used this to urge safety among others.
An average of two divers have died during past lobster hunting seasons, and a handful injured.
If you or someone you know is participating in this lobster mini season:
- Stray away from diving at night, as it is NOT permitted.
- Make sure the vessel you are using has safety equipment on board such as flares, life jackets and fire extinguishers.
