lifeguards are on duty every day along the main beaches of rio - normally they are stationed on top of the towers, at the border of the beach and the sidewalk. additionally, there is a helicopter that patrols the water and looks for swimmers at sea or in trouble.

this helicopter will literally scoop up anyone asking for help and drop them on the sand. mostly on duty during major holidays and week-ends, this red helicopter can often be seen training during the week. a red flag near the water, or a small red sign means that the under tide can be dangerous, even if the water appears calm on the surface.