In connection with new series, “Rescue: Hi-Surf,” FOX Entertainment has partnered with United States Lifesaving Association (USLA) to support its, “Lifeguards First,” campaign. This initiative aims to grant open-water lifeguards the benefits and recognition of being Emergency First Responders. The campaign will allow people to send a pre-populated letter to their appropriate representative urging them to support and co-sign House Concurrent Resolution 41, which officially recognizes open-water lifeguards as First Responders.
Michael Thorn, President of FOX Television Network, released a statement about its new series and joining forces with the USLA:
“Our new action-drama Rescue: HI-Surf captures the incredible skill and bravery of open-water lifeguards, and every episode is inspired by the heroic, real-life first responders who save lives every day under seemingly impossible conditions, but through our work on this series, we were troubled to learn that despite their essential, courageous work, they are not considered Emergency First Responders in most places and don’t receive the recognition and benefits they deserve. With today’s announcement of ‘LIFEGUARDS FIRST,’ we are supporting the USLA to turn the tide on this important issue.”
President of the USLA, Peter Davis, also released a statement regarding this latest partnership:
“The USLA is excited to collaborate with FOX in rallying Congressional Co-Sponsors for House Concurrent Resolution 41, which will recognize open water lifeguards as official emergency response providers. This vital measure will ensure that lifeguards across the nation are acknowledged as first responders, granting them the respect and benefits commensurate with their critical role in public safety.”
On August 5th, FOX and USLA brought the campaign to Manasquan, NJ during the Manasquan Lifeguard Tournament, and will bring the initiative to beach pop-ups in New Jersey on August 24th and in Los Angeles on August 31st. The beach pop-up events will include shaved ice trucks, immersive photo ops, appearances from the “Rescue: HI-Surf” cast and other VIPs, and opportunities to spread awareness and further support the movement by visiting the branded microsite to put locals’ voices behind this cause and contacting their local representative about getting open-water lifeguards classified as First Responders.
The series stars Robbie Magasiva (Wentworth, Bad Behaviour), Arielle Kebbel (The Vampire Diaries, John Tucker Must Die), Adam Demos (Sex / Life, UnReal), Kekoa Kekumano (The White Lotus, Aquaman), Alex Aiono (Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin, Doogie Kameāloha M.D) and Zoe Cipres (Roswell, New Mexico). In addition, Sea Shimooka (3 Body Problem, Arrow), Shawn Hatosy (Animal Kingdom) and Ian Anthony Dale (The Resident) will appear in recurring roles.
“Rescue: Hi-Surf” comes from the minds of award-winning executive producer John Wells, and writer Matt Kester. The series will mark a special premiere on Sunday, September 22nd, after the FOX NFL doubleheader. It will then premiere on its original slated timeslot on Monday, September 23rd, at 9 PM ET on FOX.
You can log on to the campaign website for more information on how you can support in getting open-water lifeguards recognized as First Responders.
