Surf breaks are often far from immediate emergency care. The Adopt a Cove program helps surf communities install lifesaving rescue stations so surfers and beachgoers can respond quickly when emergencies happen. By placing rescue stations at beaches and surf breaks, communities can provide critical care in the first three minutes, when survival rates are highest.
Lead a project to install or deploy a rescue station at your break.
Help fund lifesaving equipment at surf breaks around the world.
What is Adopt a Cove?
Adopt a Cove is a global surf safety initiative helping communities install lifesaving rescue stations at beaches and surf breaks. These stations provide emergency equipment that allows surfers, lifeguards, and bystanders to respond immediately before professional responders arrive.
Typical rescue stations include:
• AED (Automated External Defibrillator)
• Severe bleeding control kits
• Narcan for opioid overdose
• Epinephrine for allergic reactions
• First aid supplies and rescue gear
When care begins within three minutes, survival rates increase dramatically.
Why it Matters?
Many surfers paddle out before or after lifeguards are on duty. Emergency response times at beaches can often exceed 8–10 minutes, especially in remote or lightly staffed areas. Rescue stations help close that gap. Surfers are often the first people in the water when emergencies happen. The studies show that a typical surfer will rescue three people in their lifetime. With the right equipment and training, they can help save lives.
Where Rescue Stations Exist
Adopt a Cove training and rescue stations have been installed, or mobile stations have been deployed at surf breaks and beaches around the world, including:
- California
- Hawaii
- Tahiti
- Community beaches and coastal parks
- Surf camps and wave pools
How It Works and Getting Started
Adopt a Cove helps communities install rescue stations through a simple process.
- Identify Your Break: Tell us where your surf spot or beach is located.
- Plan the Station: Work with Adopt a Cove and local lifeguards to determine the best solution.
- Install & Launch: Rescue Stations are installed or deployed with lifesaving equipment.
- Train the Community: Optional training helps surfers and locals respond safely during emergencies.
Help Make Your Break Safer
Lead a project to install or deploy a rescue station at your break.
Help fund lifesaving equipment at surf breaks around the world.
Bring lifesaving equipment to the places surfers gather.