A New Jersey Senate resolution praising open water lifeguards for their essential role in protecting residents and visitors along the state’s beaches and waterways will now formally recognize them as first responders. The measure, SR72, which passed unanimously in a New Jersey state Senate voice vote on June 30, recognizes open water lifeguards as first responders and emergency response providers, acknowledging the dangers they face when rescuing swimmers, responding to medical emergencies and protecting the public.