Virginia Beach Lifeguard Association

09/03/2026

Registration is now open for our National Lifesaving Conference & Expo, November 9–12 in Jacksonville, Florida.

Join lifesaving and public safety professionals from across the country for an expanded week of education, collaboration, exhibits and recognition.

This year’s education program features expert-led sessions, hands-on learning and demonstrations, covering everything from medical response and beach operations to professional development, public information, responder safety, career longevity and more. Education Days-only registration is also available for November 10–11 for those who want to focus on the educational program, Expo and Awards Banquet.

The Expo Hall is filling up with organizations representing rescue equipment, technology, uniforms, sun protection and other resources for lifesaving and public safety professionals.

The conference culminates Wednesday evening with the inaugural USLA Awards Banquet, celebrating outstanding service and achievement across the lifesaving community, including the presentation of the USLA Ben Carlson Lifeguard of the Year Award.

Registration is open through October 31. Attendees can also reserve rooms at the Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront at the special USLA group rate.

👉 View the full schedule and register at USLA.org/events

09/02/2026

With Labor day on the horizon, VB Ocean Rescue wants to remind everyone to follow these safety tips while visiting any beach. These safety tips are recommended to help protect you and your family while visiting any body of water.

1. Swim Near a lifeguard
2. Drink plenty of water
3. Wear Sunscreen
4. Never swim alone
5. Check in with Lifeguards
6. Learn rip current safety
7. Check beach and ocean conditions before heading to the beach
8. Alcohol and water do not mix
9. Life jackets save lives
10. Do not dig large holes in the sand
11. Enter the water feet first

We hope everyone has a safety labor day weekend & thank you to People of Virginia Beach for the amazing photo!

08/28/2026

08/27/2026

There’s never a reason to not swim near a lifeguard!

Lifeguards are trained to spot danger, respond quickly, and help in emergencies before a situation becomes critical. Even strong swimmers can face unexpected currents, fatigue, injuries, or other hazards. Make water safety a priority every time you swim!!

08/23/2026

VBLS is always chic!!

08/21/2026

A new resolution waiting to be voted on by the House of Representatives could help pave the way for open-water lifeguards in the U.S. to be federally recognized as first responders. NBC News' Gabriela Dellan reports.

08/16/2026

2026 VBLS Company Photos!📸

Slide 1: Whole team
Slide 2: Rookie class
Slide 3: Supervisors
Slide 4: Competition team
Slide 5: Deputy Chief F***h with a handful of Sergeants
Slide 6: The men in charge (minus Deputy Chief Wheatley) + the marketing team

08/12/2026

While many agencies in Southern California have been folded into their fire departments and are already considered first responders, the designation has not yet been given to other lifeguarding agencies across the state and country.

08/11/2026

A Virginia Beach native and her son are working as lifeguards at the Oceanfront this summer. Because they live in New Jersey, it took a little creativity to make the gig work. (Link in comments.)

08/08/2026

Starting last week, every VBLS guard has a new addition to their first aid kit! Each first aid kit is now equipped with GuardSpeak, a pocket sized Spanish reference guide that was created by second year lifeguard Wyatt Salter. The end goal is to help lifeguards communicate with Spanish-speaking patrons in the most effective way possible. The guide includes common phrases and pronunciations for situations like lost and found children.

GuardSpeak is now stocked in every first aid kit and at our headquarters so our guards can help better serve everyone who visits Virginia Beach! Thank you Wyatt for creating these pocket sized guides and making a difference in our community!!