New Jersey Senate Recognizes Open Water Lifeguards as First Responders

New Jersey Senate Recognizes Open Water Lifeguards as First Responders

Open water lifeguards across New Jersey are one step closer to receiving the same recognition and protections afforded to other emergency responders.

It’s no secret that our shore lifeguards are amazing. Throughout the summertime, they’re there protecting us, making sure we do not drown or get caught in some of New Jersey’s rip currents.

The New Jersey State Senate has unanimously approved a resolution formally recognizing open water lifeguards as first responders and emergency response providers, acknowledging the critical role they play in protecting lives along the state’s 123 miles of coastline.

The resolution states that lifeguards routinely place themselves in dangerous situations to rescue swimmers, provide emergency medical care, and respond to life-threatening incidents. It also recognizes that many lifeguards receive specialized training in emergency medical response, marine firefighting, law enforcement support, and rescue watercraft operations.

According to the resolution, lifeguards carry out the same core emergency response duties as many traditional first responders by responding to emergencies, treating victims, assisting those in need, and transporting people to safety. It also notes that lifeguards help protect life, property, evidence, and the environment key responsibilities commonly associated with first responders.

“Every day, lifeguards stand ready to put themselves in harm’s way to protect others,” said Senator Vin Gopal, who sponsored the bill.  “They are often the first to respond in emergencies, making split-second decisions that save lives and keep our beaches and waterways safe.”

The designation provides lifeguards with access to several state emergency responder benefits and protections that were previously unavailable.

These include eligibility for line-of-duty death benefits for surviving family members, access to emergency responder insurance programs, priority vaccinations during future public health emergencies, and coverage under New Jersey’s First Responders Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Protection Act.

Supporters also believe the recognition could help address ongoing lifeguard staffing shortages that many Jersey Shore communities experience each summer, particularly in August when college students return to school and seasonal employees leave their positions.

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The resolution also honors two young New Jersey lifeguards who lost their lives while serving in 2021.

On August 19, 2021, 16-year-old Norman Inferrera, a first-year Cape May lifeguard from Phoenixville, Pennsylvania, suffered fatal injuries after his patrol boat overturned in rough surf.

Less than two weeks later, on August 30, 19-year-old Keith Pinto, a South Seaside Park lifeguard, was struck by lightning while on duty and later died from his injuries.

The proposal was developed with assistance from Mat Giachetti of LifeForce USA and officials with the United States Lifesaving Association, who argued that lifeguards have long performed the same responsibilities as emergency responders without receiving the same formal recognition.

For communities like the Wildwoods, where lifeguards respond to thousands of rescues, medical emergencies, and preventative actions each summer, the Senate’s action serves as a recognition of the vital role beach patrols play in keeping residents and visitors safe.

This is the exact reason why we always suggest that when you go to the beach, be sure to thank the lifeguards and maybe throw them a little gift card to grab some coffee on the way to the stand.

The resolution will now be filed with the New Jersey Secretary of State, with copies being sent to NJ Lifeguard and the American Lifeguard Association.

As a reminder, ALWAYS swim in front of a lifeguard!