California Beaches

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Laguna Beach Lifeguard, Main Beach

Laguna Beach, Calif.--Established in 1929, the Laguna Beach Lifeguards face a daunting task. They get lots of newcomers to the beach with very little ocean experience, and they must keep an eye on them and keep them safe from harm. While many perceive California lifeguards to be either kids off school for the summer, or people with the enviable position of getting paid to get a tan, lifeguards at public beaches in California have a lot more going on than the average visitor can imagine.

What are the most dangerous situations requiring rescues at Laguna Beach? Rip currents!

If you see the water is brown and foamy and you are at a beach without a lifeguard, you may be looking at "rips", and if so, don't go. Most Laguna Beach lifeguards will post the conditions, and if they are really dangerous, will keep the public out of the water.

Lifeguards aren't just about sitting in sunshine and watching the people all day. They have to look for patterns, and look for people who have potential for getting in trouble. The dangers aren't necessarily strictly from not sticking to a buddy system either. If two people can't swim, both are in jeopardy. When the currents are strong, stop before you get in over your head. Dozens of people die each year on the California coast by getting in currents that drag them out to sea, and without being able to swim, it only takes seconds to disappear.