Los Angeles County Fire Department, Lifeguard Division

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Los Angeles County Fire Department, Lifeguard Division Welcome to the OFFICIAL page of the Los Angeles County Fire Department, Lifeguard Division.

The Los Angeles County Lifeguard Service employs 132 year-round lifeguards (Chiefs, Captains and Ocean Lifeguard Specialists) and over 650 seasonal lifeguards (Recurrents). Responsible for providing ocean lifesaving protection for over 72 miles of Southern California coastline, the Los Angeles County Lifeguards perform over 16,000 ocean rescues a year. The service is also entrusted with protecting and serving an estimated fifty-five million beachgoers a year. In addition, County lifeguards provide around the clock paramedic services to the residents of Catalina Island.

For some, the journey begins this weekend with the 2026 Ocean Lifeguard Candidate Exam. This will be the first of many s...
10/15/2026

For some, the journey begins this weekend with the 2026 Ocean Lifeguard Candidate Exam. This will be the first of many steps toward earning the opportunity to become a LACoFD Lifeguard Division

The road will not be easy, but it will be worth it.

Good luck to all participants, and we look forward to seeing you on Saturday.

Beach ready. A slight change in conditions this morning, with early signs of a high-pressure system and Santa Ana wind...
10/13/2026

Beach ready.

A slight change in conditions this morning, with early signs of a high-pressure system and Santa Ana winds developing throughout the week. Expect a significant rise in air temperatures each day through Friday, bringing with it plenty of beach and ocean activity.

Conditions may be changing, but we appreciate the consistent support of Toyota USA, which helps us maintain our commitment to keeping our coastline among the safest in the world.

📷: wadleywadley

Scenes from Zuma HQ this morning.A High Surf Advisory issued by NWS Los Angeles remains in effect, with this morning’s 5...
10/10/2026

Scenes from Zuma HQ this morning.

A High Surf Advisory issued by NWS Los Angeles remains in effect, with this morning’s 5.8-foot high tide contributing to tidal overflow, coastal flooding, and hazardous ocean conditions, including strong rip currents.

Tomorrow brings the greatest uncertainty surrounding potential coastal flooding, as rain, wind, low atmospheric pressure, and swells arriving from multiple directions could combine to increase impacts along our coastline.

Stay tuned for updates as conditions develop, use caution around flooded areas and the water’s edge, and always check in with a lifeguard before entering the ocean.

Stay informed, know your limits, and stay safe.

The National Weather Service (NWS Los Angeles) has issued a Coastal Flood Warning, in effect until 3:00 PM Sunday.In add...
10/10/2026

The National Weather Service (NWS Los Angeles) has issued a Coastal Flood Warning, in effect until 3:00 PM Sunday.

In addition, acombination of large, long-period south swell combined with forecasted high morning tides (~6’+) will bring coastal flooding impacts to south facing beaches across Los Angeles County, specifically the Malibu Coast & Zuma Beach.

Stay clear of flooding in low-lying beach areas, parking lots, walkways, and access roads during high tides.

In addition, elevated surf heights will bring strong currents and increased rip current activity to all Los Angeles County Beaches.

As always:
- Check in with a lifeguard for updated conditions & hazards
- Swim near an OPEN Lifeguard Tower
- Stay off rocks & jetties
- Know your limits!

10/09/2026

Four decades, one coastline. Santa Monica in the 1980s and again in 2026.

For generations, millions of people have come to these beaches to swim, surf, and enjoy the ocean. Some things may look different over the years, but the goal of LACoFD Lifeguard Division remains the same: keeping our beaches and communities safe.

The warm ocean water trend continues into October. Recent readings at Santa Monica have averaged approximately 74.3°F. N...
10/08/2026

The warm ocean water trend continues into October. Recent readings at Santa Monica have averaged approximately 74.3°F. Nearby Santa Monica Bay buoy data show the warmest start to October in our available comparison dating back to 1982.  
 
NOAA and the National Weather Service report that El Niño continues to strengthen, which may contribute to further ocean warming.

More updates coming soon. In the meantime, check NOAA for current live data. As always, be sure to check in with a lifeguard before entering the water.

10/06/2026

With the Rescue Boat Operations training course scheduled in a few weeks, LACoFD Lifeguard Division worked on a stern tow to side-tie drill, simulating a distressed vessel taking on water. Vessel handling, crew coordination, and clear communication all play an important role in ensuring a safe and effective response.

With every training evolution is another opportunity to prepare for the moments when those skills are needed most.

10/02/2026

Tonight, California Spiny Lobster season officially begins at 6 PM. With opening night traditionally being one of the busiest times of the year for scuba and freediving, here are a few tips to help you stay safe this lobster season:

1. Always dive with a buddy, and make sure to perform a proper gear check before entering the water.

2. Never hold your breath while breathing on compressed air.

3. Plan your dive and dive your plan.

4. Know your limits and always dive within your abilities.
Please keep in mind that there are specific regulations and no-take areas throughout Los Angeles County.
Be sure to visit CA Dept. of Fish & Wildlife for more information on Spiny Lobster season regulations and Marine Protected Areas.

Good luck, have fun, and stay safe!

A long-duration heatwave is expected starting tomorrow, Friday, October 2, and continuing through at least next Thursday...
10/01/2026

A long-duration heatwave is expected starting tomorrow, Friday, October 2, and continuing through at least next Thursday, October 8. NWS Los Angeles forecasts very warm air temperatures across much of Los Angeles County, including coastal areas, with warm overnight conditions providing limited relief.

If you’re heading to the beach to beat the heat, stay hydrated and seek shade when possible. Before entering the water, check in with a lifeguard for current conditions and swim and surf in front of an open lifeguard tower.

Follow NWS Los Angeles for updated forecasts.

Address

2600 The Strand
Los Angeles, CA
90266

Telephone

+13109397200

Website

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