Rescue: Hi Surf parents guide: This beach rescue series could be great for teens

It’s time for another intense first-responder series. Rescue: Hi-Surf takes place on one of the most dangerous beaches in Hawaii.

With the series so intense, it could seem unsuitable for the kids. It’s worth noting that this is a FOX series, which affects a lot of what can and can’t be shown on the TV screen. So, while the emergencies still have an element of drama and suspense, this series is going to be something that works for the teens in the house.

Rescue: Hi-Surf is a great TV-14 drama

The series follows a group of 20-something and 30-something lifeguards. They deal with the most dangerous stretch of North Beach on O’ahu, and that means some scary calls. Let’s take a look at the breakdown of what gives a show a rating.

Sex & nudity: There have only been two episodes of the series so far, and they haven’t shown any graphic sex or nudity. There are characters running around in bathing suits since they’re lifeguards on a beach, but there’s nothing gratuitous about the way things look.

This could change, but not to the point of full-frontal nudity. We’ll likely see some of the characters hooking up and there being the inference of sex. FOX doesn’t allow nudity, so it limits what we see.

Language: Like with nudity, FOX doesn’t allow much in the way of language. Usually, the curse words are basic like “hell” and “damn.” Even the B-word isn’t allowed that much in a FOX series. We’re not expecting a heavy amount of language throughout the series.

Violence & gore: There is a small amount of violence and gore in the series, but only on the level of what works for teenagers. After all, we’re talking about medical emergencies on the beach and accidents happening in the water. This is likely on the level of the violence on show in 911: Lone Star and Alert: Missing Persons Unit.

There will be some blood on show now and then. We’ll get to see the odd injury, but nothing that will make you queasy.

Alcohol & drugs: As we have a group of adults, drinking in bars is a common part of the series. This is the way a lot of first responders choose to relax. There are even moments of characters drinking a beer in their house. We are likely to often see characters high on drugs or drunk in the middle of emergencies—the characters who need saving. This gives us a look at the dangers of drugs and alcohol while on the beach, which is an important topic to raise with teens.

The use isn’t gratuitous in the first couple of episodes. Considering it’s a broadcast series on FOX, this is what we expect to see continue.

It is worth noting that some of the characters are in their younger 20s, and this affects the way they treat alcohol. While not gratuitous, it's important to have discussions about safe drinking.

Overall verdict: Who is Rescue: Hi-Surf appropriate for?

While this series is certainly aimed at adults, teenagers could enjoy it. There is action that will draw them in, and it’s a great look at a job opportunity that is out there. The level of violence and nudity is standard for a broadcast series, making it work for the majority of teenagers. You’ll need to assess for your particular teen if they act out scenes too often!