California Recognizes Open Water Lifeguards as First Responders-MI Might Consider the Same

California recently recognized open-water lifeguards as first responders. That is great news, and perhaps it is something we can consider in Michigan.

Lifeguards complete extensive training, and as someone who does this type of work to help the local community and holds an open-water deep-water rescue certification, it is encouraging to see this recognition. I went through lifeguard training earlier this year and pick up a few evening shifts in Michigan and California. Some of that contribution may include beaches and inland lakes from time to time.

(Illustrative Only)
...and they say
we are not first responders.
You do it then,
we need more lifeguards.

As a volunteer part-time firefighter, I have also learned many of the same skills through my training. In some ways, lifeguards have higher physical requirements and more specialized initial lifesaving training, while firefighters focus more heavily on fire response as well as lifesaving techniques Lifeguarding can require CPR, AED, water rescue, swimming with victims, underwater rescue, oxygen administration, and other specialized certifications and skills. You learn much from this journey and I have great respect for the fields.

California Recognizes Open-Water Lifeguards as First Responders

• California lawmakers approved Senate Concurrent Resolution 192, formally recognizing open-water lifeguards as first responders and emergency response providers.
• The resolution passed the State Assembly on August 19, 2026, and will take effect after being signed by the Secretary of State.
• California lifeguards have performed more than 1.4 million rescues in the state’s oceans, lakes, and rivers.
• San Diego officials emphasized that lifeguards routinely respond to drownings, cardiac emergencies, floods, cliff rescues, boating accidents, and other life-threatening situations.
• The nonbinding resolution does not immediately change pay or benefits, but supporters see it as an important first step toward stronger recognition, resources, and protections for lifeguards.

Murphy, T. (2026, August 26). Lifeguards save lives. California is only now recognizing them as first responders. Times of San Diego. https://timesofsandiego.com/politics/2026/08/26/california-recognizing-them-as-first-responders/