Disaster was averted in Laguna Beach. Photo: Laguna Beach lifeguards//screenshot
The recent run of south swell pounding the California coast has kept lifeguards busy. Sadly, large waves killed several beachgoers in the past few weeks, claiming the lives of a young girl in Laguna Beach and two college students in Santa Cruz.
Thanks to quick action by Laguna Beach lifeguards, further tragedy was avoided during a recent rescue at Crescent Bay Beach.
In a video recorded by an onlooker and shared by the Laguna Beach lifeguards, a rip current pulled several swimmers out to sea as massive waves broke on the shore. A lifeguard vessel got to the people in distress before the situation got worse.
“A lifeguard reached the victims and assisted them aboard Wave Watch,” Laguna Beach lifeguards wrote on Instagram. “Once conditions allowed, the victims were brought closer to shore and transferred safely back to the beach.”
As swell continues to produce large surf, the lifeguards warn to stay vigilant before getting in the ocean.
“Rip currents can move swimmers away from shore quickly, especially during large surf events,” the lifeguards said. “Before entering the water, stop by a lifeguard tower and ask about current ocean conditions. We are always here and ready to help.”
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