Lifeguard Jr. Camp participants receive commemorative T-shirts

“We don’t just prevent drownings—we also prevent crime,” said Omar Ortiz, coordinator of the Aquatic Rescue Division, during a ceremony to hand out T-shirts to children and teens participating in the Lifeguard Jr. Camp.

Ortiz explained that the summer program is taught by members of the Aquatic Rescue Division, whose dedication and commitment have provided participants with essential tools and knowledge for developing water safety and prevention skills. The camp also includes lessons on crime prevention, with talks from the DARE program.

“We don’t just prevent drownings—we also prevent crime. We want children and young people to understand the lifeguard culture and see it as a profession that not only saves lives but also teaches them to protect themselves and share that knowledge with friends,” Ortiz said.

The 94 participants learned about ocean currents, marine flora and fauna, beach hazards, hydration, and basic pre-hospital care. The program also covered topics such as safe mobility and natural phenomena—including earthquakes, tremors and tsunamis—referencing the recent tsunami alert triggered by an earthquake in Russia.

The camp is one of the most in-demand activities during the vacation season, reaffirming the city’s commitment to training future generations of lifeguards. This Friday, each participant received a T-shirt featuring “Estrella,” the dog who lives at the Central Zone Fire and Lifeguard Station and accompanies lifeguards during their shifts.

For the first time, the Aquatic Rescue Division has used Estrella’s image, which delights beachgoers with her skills climbing lifeguard towers and hopping onto rescue watercraft alongside the lifeguards.