Supervisor Don Knabe has secured $428,250 in the County’s 2006-2007 Budget to fund 24-hour staffing for Los Angeles County Lifeguards at Baywatch Cabrillo in San Pedro. The LA Harbor will now have 24 hour lifeguard coverage; this is important in case of an emergency (i.e. terrorist problem, air crash, problem on a cruise ship, etc.)
Specifically, Baywatch Cabrillo will assume more search and rescue responsibilities from the United States Coast Guard, allowing the Coast Guard to commit more time and resources to ensuring the the security of the nation’s and world’s fifth largest port complex. The Baywatch Cabrillo crew will be actively patrolling the area to hopefully minimize any potential maritime incidents. The crew will also be receiving special equipment and training from the Coast Guard.
"This additional manpower is absolutely critical to ensuring that our ports are secure," said Supervisor Knabe. "In addition to helping with homeland security, the Baywatch Cabrillo will be providing 24 Hour emergency response to the Palos Verdes and San Pedro coastlines.