Tragedy Strikes at Avon-by-the-Sea Beach in New Jersey
A sudden tragedy shook the Avon-by-the-Sea beach in Monmouth County on Friday morning around 8:30 a.m. A 15-year-old girl, accompanied by her father, jumped into the water from a rock barrier used as a breakwater. Witnesses reported that no rescuers were on the scene at the time of the incident, although lifeguards are not yet stationed at many New Jersey beaches until June 17.
A Fatal Rip Current
The young girl was carried out into the open sea by a rip current. Her father, seeing her struggling, jumped into the water in an attempt to rescue her. Sadly, the rip current proved too strong for the father and he was found lifeless almost an hour and a half after the incident occurred. This turn of events has left beachgoers shaken and questioning the safety measures in place at Avon-by-the-Sea beach.
The Danger of Rip Currents
Rip currents are a common threat to swimmers on all beaches. They can occur even on calm, sunny days and can catch even the most experienced of swimmers off guard. New Jersey beaches, in particular, are known to sometimes feature two currents cross, making it difficult for swimmers to get back to shore. Mario Meza, a local resident, explains that rip currents are especially dangerous on New Jersey beaches because of these unusual currents.
How to Survive a Rip Current
Here are some tips on how to stay safe if you find yourself caught in a rip current:
Don’t fight against the current.
Swim parallel to the shoreline to get out of the current.
Stay calm in order to conserve energy.
Whenever possible, swim at a beach that is supervised by a professional lifeguard.
If you see someone in danger, call 911 or seek help from a lifeguard immediately.
Stay Safe and Informed
It is important to stay informed and aware of the potential dangers when visiting the beach. Be sure to heed all safety warnings and only swim in areas supervised by lifeguards. Rip currents can be unpredictable, so it is essential to know how to stay safe if caught in one.
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