Since the Coronavirus came about and various public facilities were closed, Volusia County Ocean Rescue lifeguards, some of whom are also EMT's and law enforcement officers, have faced every type of rude, disrespectful, and abusive behavior imaginable. With large crowds arriving daily to our beaches, they've received the brunt of public ire from beach closures and limited access. The purpose of this petition is simply to show solidarity and support for the men and women charged to protect our beaches. These professionals rescue more than 2,000 people from our waters every year - more than every other beach patrol in Florida combined. 

I've been a lifeguard for over sixteen years. On Memorial Day in 2008, the end of my right ring finger was amputated by a rescue board handle in large surf. Myself and several other lifeguards were trying to rescue four young boys from a rip current, when a large wave took my board and a piece of my finger with it. One of the boys did not survive, but the other three were saved by lifeguards. Two had serious injuries and wouldn't have survived if not for those lifeguards. All these years later, when I look at what's left of that finger, I'm reminded of how important an ocean rescue lifeguard's job is. These men and women, many of them young kids, are the difference between life and death for thousands of visitors to our beaches each year. They aren't there for the money. There is no secret agenda. Lifeguards exist to keep us safe, and that's the only reason. Before ending my career to pursue other ventures, I had the privilege of saving many lives both in and out of the water. Regardless of where life's path takes me, my experiences as a Volusia County lifeguard will always be some of my most rewarding memories. 

Although I no longer work at the beach full time, I still remain involved. I swim drill with the guards most mornings. I still serve on the board of the non-profit Volusia Surf Lifesaving Association, and I try to provide advice and support wherever needed. But lately, I have seen and heard reports of unbelievable mistreatment of the lifeguards. I've seen officers and even young lifeguards harangued and followed around by people with cameras, recording their every action and trying to provoke them to do or say something out of line. I've seen lifeguards being screamed at, cajoled, insulted, and vilified. Lately several social media personalities and groups have chimed in, tossing in their insults, with some even calling for the agency to be disbanded or reduced. Others have accused the guards of "faking" rescues; a ludicrous and baseless accusation. I know that with everything going on, people are on-edge and under a lot of stress. I know some disagree with the way things are happening right now, and are angry and looking for answers. I get it that the beach provides a release for people and is a relaxing place to get away from all the madness. But, what I don't get is the wanton disrespect for a group of professional rescuers who exist just to keep people safe. Over the last week, there have been a few days with 80 to 90 rescues per day. I doubt many of those victims are questioning the worth and value of Volusia County Ocean Rescue lifeguards. 

By signing this petition, you're simply expressing your support for and solidarity with our local lifeguards. Please help send our leaders a message in support of this vital service and its irreplaceable value to our community. Thank you!

Thank you for your support, and swim near a lifeguard!