Fort Lauderdale Ocean Rescue: A Legacy of Excellence, A Commitment to Safety

Since 1926, the City of Fort Lauderdale has proudly upheld a legacy of ocean lifesaving services — a tradition rooted in professionalism, preparedness, and public service. Today, Fort Lauderdale Ocean Rescue (FLOR) stands as a USLA-certified, nationally recognized leader in ocean safety.

FLOR is composed of a highly trained team of certified first responders, including Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) and paramedics, who specialize in preventive safety measures, open-water rescues, and emergency medical response.

Always On Watch — 365 Days a Year

Lifeguards are on duty every single day of the year, including holidays, from Fort Lauderdale Beach Park to NE 18th Street. With 20 lifeguard towers spaced along the shoreline, our team ensures maximum visibility and rapid response capabilities.

Each tower is equipped with advanced lifesaving and medical equipment, including backboards, oxygen, AEDs, rescue tubes, paddleboards, and more. Our beach patrol vehicles are similarly outfitted, ready to assist at a moment’s notice.

Protecting Over 5 Million Visitors Annually

FLOR proudly protects and serves the over 5 million people who visit Fort Lauderdale Beach each year. In a typical year, our dedicated lifeguards:

• Provide medical treatment to more than 8,000 people
• Save hundreds of lives
• Prevent over 40,000 potential drowning
• Reunite lost children with their families
• Assist over 130,000 patrons with information and safety guidance

Our team also offers Mutual Aid to nearby jurisdictions within Broward County, underscoring our role as a regional leader in coastal safety.

Swim Smart. Stay Safe.

With its warm turquoise waters and white-sand shoreline, Fort Lauderdale Beach is one of the safest and most scenic beaches in the country — thanks to the vigilance of our Ocean Rescue team. For your safety, always swim near a staffed lifeguard tower and ask a lifeguard if you’re unsure about ocean conditions.

Fort Lauderdale Ocean Rescue is here to protect you — so you can relax and enjoy everything our beautiful beach has to offer, year-round.

For beach rules and regulations please click here.