EWA BEACH, HI (KHON2) — The Honolulu Ocean Safety Department is celebrating a new wave of lifeguards today, as 10 recruits officially graduated from the city’s rigorous training program at the Ewa Beach Training Facility.
Nine men and one woman completed seven weeks of intense instruction and field training. The recruits began their program in April, mastering first aid, wound care, and CPR in the classroom, as well as hands-on ocean rescue techniques using rescue tubes and boards.
Graduates trained in a variety of surf conditions across Oahu to prepare for the demands of one of the most dangerous and dynamic work environments in public safety.
The milestone graduation also coincides with the one-year anniversary of Honolulu Ocean Safety becoming a standalone city department, a move implemented under the Blangiardi administration.
The department will host its next round of recruit sign-ups on June 20 and 21, with physical tryouts scheduled for June 27 and 28. Starting pay for new lifeguards is $25.06 per hour.
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The 2025 Ocean Safety graduating class includes:
- Atticus Westin-Lee
- Michael Kirby
- William Short
- Josiah Visitacion
- Ioane Jarrad
- Triton Salvido-Arneho
- Heather Madsen
- Liam Cashin
- Zoran Cullinan
- Kainoa Kester
Those interested can find more information on the department’s website.