SURF CITY — Two swimmers caught in a rip current off Division Avenue Beach were safely rescued July 17 during a coordinated response involving firefighters, lifeguards, surfers and other emergency crews.
Surf City Volunteer Fire Company Station 49 was dispatched around 6:14 p.m. after receiving a report of swimmers in distress.
Responders arrived with a water rescue truck, personal watercraft, utility vehicle and ambulance. Mutual aid was provided by Stations 46, 15 and 13, along with the Harvey Cedars Beach Patrol’s after-hours patrol and the Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Drone Unit.
A fire chief confirmed that two swimmers were trapped in the current as nearby surfers entered the water to help.
Two trained rescue swimmers entered the ocean carrying flotation devices, while another responder used a rescue board. Crews also positioned a personal watercraft along the shoreline in case additional assistance was needed.
The swimmers were secured with flotation equipment and brought safely back to shore with help from the rescue team and surfers.
Both swimmers were evaluated by Surf City Fire and EMS personnel. No serious injuries were reported.
Officials reminded beachgoers that rip currents can form quickly and urged swimmers to enter the ocean only near an on-duty lifeguard.
