Summer Is Over, No More Guarded Beaches In Ocean County

There's going to come a day when the surf is calm, the sun is out and the ocean water is still warm.

You might be tempted to take a dip in the ocean. Don't.

None of Ocean County's beaches are guarded now. Some municipalities had tried to stave off fall and extended the summer season by guarding beaches on weekends, and in some cases, on weekdays.

But yesterday's 11-foot waves and gale-force winds put an end to that.

"As of today, HCBP (Harvey Cedars Beach Patrol) is officially out of service for the year," according to a post on the beach patrol's Facebook page. "A few days early because of poor weather conditions continuing. Thank you again for another amazing season! Around 60 water rescues, dozens of first aid calls, countless preventive/enforcement actions, LBI champions, amazing weather, and record warm water! Definitely a summer to remember."

Visitors are urged to stay out of the water. The three rip current deaths on Long Beach Island this summer all occurred on unguarded beaches, the post states.

"In the event of an emergency, always dial 911," the beach patrol advises. "Our social media accounts (Instagram, facebook, Twitter) will remain active all year with photos, updates, and information. We already can't wait for May 2017."

by Patricia A. Miller

Image: Harvey Cedars Beach Patrol