Ventnor Beach Patrol Responds to Dangerous Rip Currents Over the Weekend
- Over the weekend, the Jersey Shore beach patrol conducted over two dozen water rescues due to rip currents.
- The Ventnor City Beach Patrol had to save many swimmers trapped in rip currents.
- Rip currents forced the beach patrol to act quickly to save lives.
VENTNOR, N.J. (CBS) — A calm evening settled over Ventnor, New Jersey, on Monday, following a tumultuous weekend marked by dangerous rip currents that prompted the local beach patrol to conduct over two dozen rescues. Beachgoers, like Frann Shore from Philadelphia, noted the stark contrast in conditions, with many opting to stay out of the water due to the rough waves experienced just days prior. The Ventnor City Beach Patrol was on high alert during the weekend, as senior lieutenant Meaghan Holland reported that lifeguards were actively engaged in ensuring the safety of beachgoers. They communicated the risks associated with the rough waters and worked diligently to guide swimmers away from hazardous areas. Holland described rip currents as narrow channels that can quickly pull swimmers away from shore, likening the struggle against them to running on a treadmill. Retired lifeguards Frank Finnerty and Ward Holland emphasized the dangers of rip currents, advising that average swimmers should not attempt to fight against them. Instead, they recommended letting the current carry them out and swimming parallel to the shore to escape. The beach patrol reiterated the importance of seeking assistance from lifeguards when uncertain about water conditions, reinforcing their commitment to public safety. As the beach returns to calmer conditions, the Ventnor City Beach Patrol remains vigilant, ready to assist and protect beachgoers from the unpredictable nature of the ocean.