Lifeguard Recruits Jump Off OB Pier

A series of demonstrations showed would-be lifeguards the ropes

A helicopter rescue, boat fire response and a rescue pier jump? All in a day’s demonstration for San Diego lifeguards.

On Sunday, the professionals showed lifeguard candidates what they may face if they decide to become a full-fledged member of the team.

The simulated rescues were part of the 49th Regional Lifeguard Academy-Rescue Demonstration Sunday afternoon in Ocean Beach.

First, things kicked off with a rescuer jumping from a San Diego Fire-Rescue helicopter to access a “victim” in the water.

Next, lifeguards had to use a boat to save a victim.

Officials practiced a fire boat response, showing what would happen if rescuers had to save people from a vessel in distress.

And to top things off, the lifeguard recruits took a dive off the Ocean Beach Pier. No, it wasn’t just for fun. The recruits may face a time when a pier may be the fastest way to reach a distressed swimmer.

The demonstrations were organized by the Miramar College San Diego Regional Lifeguard Academy.

Through that program, students can get college credit along with training to become an entry-level bay and ocean lifeguard.

The academy said many lifeguard agencies hire from the pool of people who graduate from the courses.

This upcoming summer, the academy expects San Diego County agencies to hire more than 100 lifeguards.

Contact Us