Oceanside lifeguards rescued two people Tuesday morning who were swept off the North Jetty and into the ocean by large waves, officials said.
Seven lifeguards, aided by fire personnel, responded to the water adjacent to the jetty shortly after 10 a.m. and found the two in the water in strong currents and heavy surf. Surfers had assisted the pair until lifeguards arrived.
One of the people was in a “near-drowning situation” when he or she was rescued and was subsequently transported to a trauma center. The second person suffered minor injuries and was treated at the scene, officials said in a news release.
Lifeguards were assisted by the Oceanside Marine Safety Boat, with the two lifeguards and paramedic firefighter on the boat providing “critical assistance” that ensured the safety of all involved, officials said.
Tuesday’s rescue effort comes just four days after lifeguards rescued five people from the ocean south of the Oceanside Municipal Pier, which is about 1½ miles south of the jetty. Officials said that group may have been hit by a rogue wave or a change in the current.
One victim was flown to a trauma center, and two others were taken to hospitals via ambulance, officials said at the time.
“The Oceanside Fire Department reminds the public that being on or near the jetty can be extremely hazardous,” the fire department said in a statement. “The rocks are sharp and slippery, and unpredictable ocean conditions — including sudden waves, strong currents and shifting tides — can escalate danger within seconds.
“Rescue operations around jetties are especially risky for both victims and responders,” the department added.