Miami Beach Ocean Rescue Receives National Award for Excellence in Lifesaving Services

Miami Beach, FL – The Miami Beach Fire Department’s Ocean Rescue Division (MBOR) has received a national award for outstanding achievement in lifesaving from the United States Lifesaving Association (USLA). The national nonprofit association of beach lifeguards and open water rescue organizations presented the city with the National Award for Professional Achievement, which is given to agencies that have demonstrated a range of achievements that advance the lifesaving profession through the use of equipment, certifications, standards, regulations or any other related area highlighting leadership, innovation and commitment to public safety.

“I couldn’t be prouder of our Ocean Rescue Division,” said Miami Beach Fire Chief Digna Abello. “The division not only works hard to save lives, but also sets a high standard for other ocean rescue organizations to follow throughout the country.”

Key innovations that contributed to the recognition include the development of an in-house mobile emergency medical services and basic life support protocols app, the creation of a beach conditions website integrated with live beach cams as well as the division’s regular updates to training and standard operating procedures. Miami Beach is currently the only ocean rescue agency in the nation with its own mobile app for lifeguard protocols.

“This national recognition is a testament to the incredible dedication and professionalism our lifeguards bring to the beach every single day,” added Ocean Rescue Chief Jason Casanova.

The USLA works to reduce drowning and aquatic injuries in the United States through public education, the development of national training standards and the promotion of best practices. USLA certifies lifeguard agencies that meet national standards. Miami Beach is one of only 37 certified agencies in Florida.

Last year, MBOR performed 577 ocean rescues — saving over 800 lives. In addition, they responded to more than 96,000 minor medical calls for service and 600 major medical calls.

The division also conducted over 759,000 preventive actions and 510,000 beach enforcements. Ocean Rescue has 97 full-time lifeguards and 30 part-time lifeguards. More than 90% of all city lifeguards are certified as Emergency Medical Technicians — ensuring a high level of medical readiness and professionalism at all times.

###

To request this material in alternate format, sign language interpreter (five-day notice required), information on access for persons with disabilities, and/or any accommodation to review any document or participate in any city-sponsored proceedings, call 305.604.2ADA (2232) and select 1 for English or 2 for Spanish, then option 6; TTY users may call via 711 (Florida Relay Service).