California Code, Harbors and Navigation Code - HNC § 510

The sheriff of each county shall give all possible aid and assistance to vessels stranded on its coast, and to the persons on board.  He shall exert himself to save and preserve such persons, vessels, and their cargoes, and all goods and merchandise which may be cast by the sea upon the land, and to this end he may employ as many persons as he may think proper.  All citizens shall aid the sheriff when required.