In 1990 The Oxnard Fire Department founded a Water Rescue Program. This program basic in its inception has grown the past 26 years and developed into a certified United States Lifeguard Association Aquatic Response Team. This certification means that Oxnard Fire’s Water Rescue Program meets the highest standard of surf lifesaving; a program to which only 6 Fire Departments are certified in California.
The Oxnard Fire Department’s Ocean Rescue, identified as Ocean Rescue 66, responds out of Station 6. Ocean Rescue 66 is cross staffed by the Engine 66 crew. Ocean Rescue 66 is a four wheel drive vehicle with a jet ski in tow. The jet ski is identified as RWC 66 or Rescue Water Craft 66. Oxnard Fire responds to over 20 miles of coastline along the Oxnard plain, in addition, to mutual aid north into Ventura and south into Malibu.
Oxnard Beaches do not have lifeguards on duty so we urge every beach patron to exercise extreme caution when in the water. Rip currents present a huge hazard to swimmers and account for 80% of all water rescues. Rip currents are powerful, narrow channels of fast-moving water. If stuck in a rip current remain calm, the quickest way out is to swim at a 45 degree angle towards shore until outside of the rip current.
Oxnard Fire reminds you to:
- Learn to swim
- Always swim near a lifeguard.
- Swim with a buddy
- Check with the lifeguards
- Use sunscreen and drink water
- Obey posted signs and flags
- Keep the beach and water clean
- Learn rip current safety
- Enter water feet first
- Lifeguards are your friends!