A Historic Moment in American Broadcasting
The American Lifeguard Association is honored to be included in CBS News Radio’s final broadcast coverage during this historic moment in American broadcasting. After nearly a century of service, CBS News Radio is preparing to close a remarkable chapter in journalism history as Memorial Day weekend approaches.
To have our national water safety message featured during the network’s final period of broadcasting is both meaningful and humbling.
CBS News Radio’s Legacy of Public Service
For generations, CBS News Radio has been a trusted source of news and information for millions of Americans. Its reporting has helped inform the public through wars, national emergencies, elections, cultural changes, and countless moments that shaped the country.
Radio news has always held a unique place in American life because of its immediacy, accessibility, and ability to reach people wherever they are — in their homes, cars, workplaces, and communities.
Why This Interview Matters
This moment carries special significance for the American Lifeguard Association because our mission is rooted in public safety, lifeguard training, water safety education, drowning prevention, and national awareness of aquatic risks.
To have that message shared by CBS News Radio during its final broadcast era connects our work to a much larger tradition of public service journalism.
Lifeguard Staffing and Summer Water Safety Remain Urgent
The issue discussed in the interview — lifeguard staffing and summer water safety — is urgent. Across the United States, many communities continue to face challenges recruiting, training, and retaining qualified lifeguards.
At the same time, families are preparing to return to swimming pools, beaches, lakes, rivers, and waterparks for the summer season.
Memorial Day Weekend and the Start of Summer
Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of summer, making public awareness even more important. When lifeguard staffing is limited, parents, swimmers, aquatic facility operators, and local officials all share responsibility in helping reduce preventable drownings and aquatic injuries.
Certification Is Only One Part of Aquatic Safety
The American Lifeguard Association continues to emphasize that lifeguard certification is only one part of a complete aquatic safety system.
Aquatic employers must also conduct documented pre-service evaluations, ongoing in-service training, emergency action planning, active supervision, and regular skills verification. These measures help ensure lifeguards are prepared not only with certification, but also with the real-world readiness needed to respond effectively in emergencies.
Recognizing Wyatt Werneth’s Role
We are especially grateful to Wyatt Werneth, Public Service Spokesperson for the American Lifeguard Association, for representing the Association in this important CBS News Radio interview.
His experience, professionalism, and lifelong commitment to water safety make him a strong national voice on lifeguard readiness, drowning prevention, and public safety.
A Message Focused on Saving Lives
Being included in CBS News Radio’s final broadcasting period is an honor the American Lifeguard Association does not take lightly. It reflects the importance of the issue and the public responsibility we all share in preventing drownings and improving aquatic safety nationwide.
As CBS News Radio concludes its historic run, we are proud that a message centered on saving lives, protecting communities, supporting lifeguards, and improving water safety was part of that legacy.
