Coast Guard Rescues Swimmer in Distress off Belmar
Monday, September 25, 2017
PHILADELPHIA, PA (September 24, 2017) - The Coast Guard rescued a man from the water off the coast of Belmar, New Jersey, Saturday.
Watchstanders at Coast Guard Delaware Bay were notified at about 5:15 p.m. by Belmar Fire Rescue of a swimmer in distress off 16th Avenue.
Coast Guard Sector Delaware Bay watchstanders issued an Urgent Marine Information Broadcast and dispatched a 47-foot Motor Life Boat from Station Manasquan Inlet to assist.
The boat crew rescued the swimmer from the water and transported him to Station Manasquan Inlet where local EMS was waiting.
“While beach goers are looking to enjoy the apparent extension to their summer season, it is important to remember the increased risks posed by strong offshore weather systems," said Lt. Chris Shivock, the command duty officer at Coast Guard Sector Delaware Bay. "Late summer and early fall are the peak of hurricane season in North America and they do not need to make landfall to have an impact. The large swells generated by these storms can create strong rip currents that pose a serious threat to swimmers and small personal water craft."