Deep Dive: An Interview with ILCIRA

Deep Dive: An Interview with ILCIRA

From Deep Dive Into Water Safety by Kauaʻi Community Radio - KKCR

March 7, 2026 · 1h 15m · Season 1

About this episode

This episode discusses the psychological impact of critical incidents on lifeguards and the efforts to improve their mental health and wellbeing.

Episode Notes Why aren’t lifeguards first responders? This interview is focusing on a part of aquatic safety that is often overlooked but critically important the psychological impact of critical incidents on lifeguards and aquatic professionals. This conversation is about evidence, responsibility, and the people who protect lives in and around the water and what it takes to protect them in return. Lifeguards are routinely exposed to high-stress events: rescues, near-drownings, fatalities, and repeated exposure to trauma. Yet unlike many other first-responder professions, the mental health and wellbeing of lifeguards has historically been under-studied and under-resourced. Three leaders who are working together to change that through research, international collaboration, and practical support systems for lifeguards and aquatic professionals worldwide are part of this important discussion. Dr. Jaz Lawes is the National Research Manager for Surf Life Saving Australia, with extensive experience in applied research that directly informs frontline lifesaving practice. Dr. Sam Fien is a Senior Lecturer at CQUniversity Australia, the National Wellbeing Advisor for Surf Life Saving…

People in this episode

Guests: Dr. Jaz Lawes, Dr. Sam Fien, Tyler Anderson

Topics covered

  • aquatic safety
  • mental health
  • lifeguards
  • trauma
  • research
  • wellbeing

Keywords

  • lifeguards
  • mental health
  • trauma
  • aquatic safety
  • research
  • wellbeing
  • critical incidents

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Surf Life Saving Australia, CQUniversity Australia, International Lifeguard Critical Incident Response Alliance

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