As Hurricane Erin becomes the first named storm of the season, the American Lifeguard Association (ALA) is reinforcing its call for public awareness and water safety. In a live interview yesterday with FOX Weather, Wyatt Werneth, National Spokesperson for the ALA, highlighted the dangers of rip currents, the importance of lifeguards, and the urgent need for families to take precautions as coastal conditions grow more hazardous.
The Critical Role of Lifeguards
“Lifeguards save lives,” Werneth reminded viewers. Beaches with lifeguards have dramatically lower drowning rates, yet many coastal and inland swimming areas continue to face shortages. Communities nationwide are struggling to staff pools and beaches, leaving some stretches of shoreline unprotected. This reality makes it all the more important for swimmers to stay in designated guarded areas whenever possible.
Assigning a Water Watcher
Where lifeguards are not present, the ALA strongly urges families to assign a designated Water Watcher—an adult whose sole responsibility is to actively monitor swimmers without distraction. Werneth explained that drowning can happen silently and in seconds, making constant, undivided attention critical. For children and novice swimmers, a U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jacket adds another essential layer of protection.
Hurricane Erin and Rip Current Awareness
With Hurricane Erin creating dangerous surf and rip currents, Werneth stressed that conditions can change quickly, even far from the storm itself. Rip currents remain one of the greatest threats to beachgoers. They do not pull swimmers under but carry them outward, often leading to panic. Werneth repeated the ALA’s lifesaving advice: If caught in a rip, think R.I.P.—Relax, Indicate you need help, and Parallel swim along the shore until you are free of the current.
ALA’s Safety Reminders
To help families prepare, the ALA continues to emphasize its core safety checklist:
Learn to Swim America – Strong swimmers are safer swimmers.
Know Before You Go – Check surf forecasts, beach flags, and weather alerts.
Stay Alert to Warnings – Heed closures, advisories, and beach flag signals.
Swim Near a Lifeguard – Whenever possible, swim in protected areas.
Assign a Water Watcher – Where lifeguards are absent, take safety into your own hands.
