Four Caught In Rip Current At Unguarded Island Beach Rescued

ISLAND BEACH STATE PARK - A small crew of lifeguards were not on duty when they saved four people trapped in a rip current on Tuesday, according to the park's Facebook page.

The state Department of Education had a stern warning for anyone thinking about swimming on an unguarded beach. Don't.

"There is no such thing as swim at your own risk because someone, lifeguard or not, will attempt to help," the post states. "The water may look calm and beautiful, but to the untrained eye, you do not know where a rip current is. They happen all along the coast and can form quickly. Remember NO LIFEGUARDS, NO SWIMMING."

"Three people who were swimming illegally were rescued and one of the lifeguards, who swallowed water, also had to be pulled from the water by other lifeguards," said DEP spokesman Larry Hajna.

One of the lifeguards who helped with the rescue off that day, enjoying the beach with her friends, the post states.

Photo: Patricia A. Miller