Authorities are urging residents and visitors to stay out of the ocean at unguarded beaches following multiple water rescues along the Jersey Shore and deteriorating marine conditions.
Ocean County, N.J. – The Ocean County Sheriff’s Office is warning beachgoers not to enter the water at unguarded beaches after multiple rescues were reported along the Jersey Shore, as forecasters predict rougher surf and hazardous conditions through Saturday night.
Officials said swimmers who enter the ocean without lifeguards present are not only placing themselves at risk but also endangering the first responders called upon to conduct rescues.
Key Points
• Ocean County officials reported multiple water rescues at Jersey Shore beaches.
• Authorities are urging the public to avoid swimming at unguarded beaches.
• A Small Craft Advisory has been issued as winds and seas increase Saturday.
In a public safety message issued Saturday, the Ocean County Sheriff’s Office emphasized the dangers posed by entering the ocean when lifeguards are not on duty.
“Good evening. We remind the public to not swim at unguarded beaches,” the Sheriff’s Office said. “Going into the water is putting yourself and first responders in harm’s way.”
The warning was shared in coordination with emergency responders and public safety agencies, including the Ocean County Fire and EMS Training Center, Seaside Park Police Department, Seaside Heights Police Department and Island Beach State Park.
Hazardous marine conditions expected
The warning comes as the National Weather Service issued a Small Craft Advisory for coastal waters from Sandy Hook to Manasquan Inlet beginning at 2 p.m. Saturday and continuing through late Saturday night.
Forecasters expect southwest winds to increase to 15 to 20 knots with gusts up to 25 knots. Ocean seas are forecast to build to between 3 and 5 feet, creating potentially dangerous conditions for swimmers and boaters alike.
A cold front moving through the region Saturday evening is also expected to bring showers and a chance of thunderstorms to parts of the Jersey Shore.
Officials urge beach safety
Ocean County authorities continue to remind residents that lifeguards provide a critical layer of protection and that many drownings and serious water rescues occur when beaches are unguarded.
Emergency officials encourage swimmers to use only guarded beaches during operating hours, heed posted warnings and stay out of rough surf conditions.
With summer crowds increasing along the Shore, authorities said following basic beach safety guidelines can help prevent additional emergencies and keep both the public and first responders safe.