Even though it's now fall, the good times at Venice Beach roll on, thanks to conducive weather, beautiful beaches–and the professional lifeguards who keep swimmers safe.
"Los Angeles Fire Department Lifeguard Division is one of the top professional lifeguard agencies in the world," says Ryan Aronson, an Ocean Lifeguard at Breakwater Tower, the beach area in front of the Venice sign and one of the busiest beaches in all of LA County.
Aronson–who is entering his 12th year as a lifeguard–has rescued hundreds of people. He remarks that the most important qualities for the job are anticipation and prevention.
The lifeguards keep an eye on people and notice what they're doing in the water, being especially alert to those swimmers who may put themselves at risk. "We're not there to tell people what to do," says Aronson, "simply there to inform, give insight, and explain the situation so they stay safe."
Pono Barnes, Ocean Lifeguard Specialist for the LA County Fire Department, had a long view. "In the Venice area, there are always three lifeguard towers open, with at least three Ocean Lifeguard Specialists and a Captain Lifeguard available during daylight hours."
In addition to land-based life guarding, there's also a boat berthed in Marina del Rey that is there to support the swimmers in trouble. The rescue boat is called the Baywatch Rescue Boat Del Rey. That's where Greg Bonann–lifeguard and producer of the popular television series "Baywatch"–got the name for the show (which was once listed by the Guinness Book of World Records as the most widely viewed television show in the world).
Barnes continues, "We always encourage people to swim in front of an open lifeguard tower, and to remember–swim, surf and bodyboard within your abilities. We have lifeguards available 365 days a year, to make sure you enjoy your day at the beach."
Barnes remarked that Venice is also notable for its sea life and flourishing ecosystem, giving a special shout out to Heal the Bay's clean up efforts. He says he has several friends who travel the world as professional surfers and they say that Venice Beach is one of the most active spots to see dolphins worldwide.
Photo Courtesy of Ryan Aronson
Comments