Virginia Beach Lifeguard Association

08/28/2026

08/27/2026

There’s never a reason to not swim near a lifeguard!

Lifeguards are trained to spot danger, respond quickly, and help in emergencies before a situation becomes critical. Even strong swimmers can face unexpected currents, fatigue, injuries, or other hazards. Make water safety a priority every time you swim!!

08/23/2026

VBLS is always chic!!

08/21/2026

A new resolution waiting to be voted on by the House of Representatives could help pave the way for open-water lifeguards in the U.S. to be federally recognized as first responders. NBC News' Gabriela Dellan reports.

08/16/2026

2026 VBLS Company Photos!📸

Slide 1: Whole team
Slide 2: Rookie class
Slide 3: Supervisors
Slide 4: Competition team
Slide 5: Deputy Chief F***h with a handful of Sergeants
Slide 6: The men in charge (minus Deputy Chief Wheatley) + the marketing team

08/12/2026

While many agencies in Southern California have been folded into their fire departments and are already considered first responders, the designation has not yet been given to other lifeguarding agencies across the state and country.

08/11/2026

A Virginia Beach native and her son are working as lifeguards at the Oceanfront this summer. Because they live in New Jersey, it took a little creativity to make the gig work. (Link in comments.)

08/08/2026

Starting last week, every VBLS guard has a new addition to their first aid kit! Each first aid kit is now equipped with GuardSpeak, a pocket sized Spanish reference guide that was created by second year lifeguard Wyatt Salter. The end goal is to help lifeguards communicate with Spanish-speaking patrons in the most effective way possible. The guide includes common phrases and pronunciations for situations like lost and found children.

GuardSpeak is now stocked in every first aid kit and at our headquarters so our guards can help better serve everyone who visits Virginia Beach! Thank you Wyatt for creating these pocket sized guides and making a difference in our community!!

08/01/2026

Happy International Lifeguard Day from VB Ocean Rescue!

Today we honor the bravery of all water rescuers and celebrate the impact lifeguards around the world make everyday! The day is centered around raising awareness about drowning prevention, advocate for water safety, and to show gratitude to all lifeguards! Our guards, as well as guards around the world; protect millions of swimmers, preform thousands of water rescues, medical interventions, and reunite missing children every year.

However, being a lifeguard is more than just making rescues. It is about serving your community and preventing emergencies before they occur. For almost a century, VB Ocean Rescue has held a longstanding commitment to protect the Virginia Beach community and the patrons who visit us every summer. Thank you to every VBLS employee, current and former, for your dedication to ocean rescue. Thank you to the City of Virginia Beach and thank you to every lifeguard around world for protecting our coastlines.

While open water lifeguards perform lifesaving measures everyday, they are still not considered first responders. By supporting House Resolution 1188, you can help lifeguards gain first responders status and ensure that lifeguards get the recognition they deserve. To learn more and take action, visit: usla.org/HouseResolution1188