Ocean City will launch a new beach enforcement division this summer after town leaders said last year’s rollout of tent and canopy rules created conflicts on the sand and pulled lifeguards away from their primary safety duties.

The sounds of music and cheering filled the Inlet parking lot in Ocean City this past weekend as the Oceans Calling music festival returned for another year. Organizers and attendees called the three-day festival a success, even with rain showers dampening Saturday’s schedule.

Sunny skies and warm temperatures brought out families to the beaches of Ocean City on Tuesday, but red flags lined the shore as officials kept swimmers out of the water. Hurricane Erin, located off the Atlantic coast, has created dangerous rip currents along the region, prompting beach closures and safety restrictions.