I can never understand the South Jersey lifeguards' infatuation

Avalon - I can never understand the South Jersey lifeguards' infatuation with replicas of 1880 fishing boats as rescue tools. How many actual rescues are made each year using these things? Considering the cost to buy, cost to equip, cost to maintain and store; is it really worth it? That same amount of money could raise salaries, buy modern paddle boards, new radio systems, new ATVs, AEDs or advanced training.