HONOLULU (KHON2) — Mayor Rick Blangiardi made a significant move on Wednesday by signing Resolution 24-103 at a ceremony held at Honolulu Hale.
This resolution establishes a separate Ocean Safety Department, effective immediately. This decisive action comes after a unanimous recommendation from an independent task force, initiated under Mayor Blangiardi’s leadership.
Additionally, Mayor Blangiardi signed Resolution 24-50, FD1, which puts the decision on establishing an Ocean Safety Commission on November’s ballot. These resolutions not only swiftly create a dedicated department for City and County lifeguards but also empower voters to decide whether a commission should provide oversight for the new department’s leadership.
“Every day, our brave City and County of Honolulu lifeguards dive into dangerous waters, risking their lives to protect all of us. They deserve our unwavering support and gratitude, establishing a standalone Ocean Safety Department is long overdue. We believe it will enhance their effectiveness and efficiency, allowing them to maintain their position as world-leading innovators in ocean life-saving techniques.”
Mayor Rick Blangiardi
The journey toward an independent Ocean Safety Department began in 2023 when Mayor Blangiardi commissioned an independent task force to assess its feasibility. The task force unanimously concluded that Ocean Safety would operate more effectively as a standalone entity. Previously, since 1998, the Ocean Safety and Lifeguard Services Division had been part of the Emergency Medical Services Division under the Honolulu Emergency Services Department.
City Council Chair Tommy Waters, along with Councilmembers Andria Tupola and Matt Weyer, played pivotal roles in making this milestone a reality. They introduced the resolutions that led to this historic decision.
Expressing gratitude, Councilmember Tupola said, “Signing Resolution 24-50, FD1 and 24-103 in support of the Ocean Safety Department and Ocean Safety Commission is a moment of unity with lifeguards past, present, and future.”
Councilmember Matt Weyer commented, “The establishment of the Ocean Safety Department is a significant moment for our community, demonstrating our commitment to public safety and supporting our lifeguards.”
The roots of Oahu’s lifeguards date back to the Waikiki Beach Boys in 1901. Officially established in 1917, the lifeguarding tradition has evolved over the years, from Act 201 in 1917 to its recent transition to a standalone department.
Currently, Oahu boasts 271 Water Safety Officers, eight rescue ski teams, and 42 lifeguard towers along its 227 miles of coastline. Equipped with surfboards, fins, jet skis, and extensive ocean expertise, these lifeguards remain dedicated to ensuring the safety of millions of beach-goers.