OCEAN CITY – A group of nine swimmers were brought to safety on the shores of South Jersey Saturday, following an incident where some faced difficulties in the water while others entered to attempt a rescue, officials disclosed on Monday.
Authorities in Ocean City were alerted to an emergency at Ninth Street beach when four beachgoers found themselves struggling to remain afloat approximately 20 yards offshore.
In an effort to help, several bystanders ventured into the water, only to find themselves in need of assistance, caught in the challenging conditions, as per a statement from the beach patrol.
Responding to the emergency were about a dozen first responders, including numerous lifeguards. One rescuer utilized a jet ski to reach and help those stranded. Firefighter units were also on the scene, though their equipment was not deployed.
Following the rescue, one of the individuals received on-site medical attention. Police then conducted interviews with all nine who had been involved in the incident once they were ashore, the statement detailed.
It remained uncertain whether rip currents played a role in the swimmers’ difficulties; however, lifeguard officials have suggested increased police monitoring of areas commonly affected by such hazards.
The statement did not provide information regarding hospitalizations if any occurred following the rescue.
This event coincided with a high rip current risk advisory issued by the National Weather Service for the Jersey Shore that Saturday.