Council honors lifeguards and volunteers for Christmas Day water rescue; city promotes Neighborhood Beach Watch and free CPR classes

The San Clemente City Council presented commendations Feb. 4 to lifeguards, off‑duty rescuers and first responders who helped save a swimmer who suffered a cardiac arrest in the surf at T Street on Christmas Day.

Chief Rod (presenting) summarized the rescue: surfers in the water first reached the distressed swimmer, called for help, and assisted in moving him to shore; lifeguards Hayden Paul and Ian Burton performed CPR and an automated external defibrillator (AED) was used to restore a heartbeat. The rescue involved a team of volunteers and professional responders, including retired and active fire and lifeguard personnel and support from Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA) units. The council presented certificates of recognition to named volunteers and crew members and publicly thanked everyone involved.

The rescued person, who identified himself as Ollie and described coming from Martinique, addressed the council and thanked the rescuers for saving his life. He said he had no memory of the incident and described his gratitude toward the volunteers and responders.

Marine Safety staff used the occasion to promote the department’s Neighborhood Beach Watch program — a community partnership to teach residents how to recognize ocean dangers and report swimmers in distress — and announced upcoming free CPR classes offered by a local lifeguard foundation. Staff urged residents to visit the city’s website for more information and to consider training that could help save lives.

The council commended the rescuers and encouraged public participation in beach-safety programs.