Brighten Your Day

17 year-old lifeguard saves a life on her first day

July 11, 2012

It was 17 year-old Jennifer Mahin's first day at work as a California beach lifeguard and it will be one that she will never forget.

A few hours into her shift, she was waved down by a group of teenagers screaming for her to call 911. One of their friends was swimming and got ripped out into the ocean by a strong riptide. Unable to get out on her own, the teenage girl was drowning in the waves.

After a few attempts were made by her friends to save her, the group realized they needed outside help, and they needed it fast. They found Mahin patrolling the area and she immediately jumped into action.

Mahin rushed into the water in an attempt to save the girl from the powerful ocean's grasp. Recently graduating from the California State lifeguard academy, she used her training to reach her and keep safe from the riptide.

As Mahin approached, she realized the girl was unconscious. She did everything in her power to hold the girl's head above the water. Mahin could not pull the girl out by herself, so she stayed with her and made sure she did not swallow any more water.

Help arrived soon after bringing a rescue device to Mahin and the drowning teenager. Mahin assisted the rescue team to safely bring the girl to shore. The victim became responsive. She survived a near life-ending event.

Mahin courageously saved the teen's life. When asked about the accomplishment, she said it was "the most gratifying thing ever." Talk about a big first day!