About Us
The Ocean Rescue Division of the Fernandina Beach Fire Department (FBFD) employs approximately 60 seasonal Ocean Rescue Lifeguards each year. We currently supply Lifeguard Services to all 13 miles of Amelia Island. The Ocean Rescue Division is a certified agency through the United States Lifesaving Association.
Our lifeguards are constantly engaged with the public. They perform hundreds of water rescues, thousands of preventative actions, and public education. Please feel free to approach them and ask about the days beach conditions.
Beach Patrol of the Year – Ocean Rescue was awarded the 2016 Beach Patrol of the Year, the highest honor given by the Florida Beach Patrol Chief's Association placing FBFD in the highest caliber of beach patrol agencies in Florida.
Fernandina Beach Ocean Rescue employs seasonal staff during the summer months from May to the end of September. Individuals wishing to work with Ocean Rescue should attend one of our scheduled tryouts located in the Atlantic Recreation Center pool. For more information, please go to our employment tab listed on the website.
Going to the Beach
We encourage all patrons who plan to visit our beautiful beaches to first check the conditions prior to arriving. Our Ocean Rescue division offers a public safety dashboard with real time beach conditions, lifeguard tower status, and beach related events. Remember, always swim in front of a staffed lifeguard tower!