Oceanside Fire Department. (OsideNews file photo)
Oceanside lifeguards and firefighters pulled two people from the water on Friday, Nov. 7, after their sailboat was hit by large waves while entering the harbor — one of two serious ocean rescues that took place within five days, authorities reported.
Crews were called to the scene around 6:15 p.m. when a 38-foot sailboat got caught in heavy surf near Harbor Beach. The waves pushed the vessel toward shore, leaving the two people on board in immediate danger, according to an Oceanside Fire Department report. Rescue swimmers entered the water and brought both occupants safely to land. Neither was injured.
Fire officials said the swift response from the rescue swimmers — one from the department’s Marine Safety Unit and one from a responding engine — helped ensure everyone made it out safely as conditions near the harbor entrance grew rough that evening.
Just a few days earlier, on Nov. 2, another emergency unfolded near the same location when a 25-foot powerboat capsized after being struck by strong surf. Five people were thrown into the water as the vessel overturned, the Fire Department reported. Oceanside lifeguards, firefighters, a Marine Safety Unit rescue boat and nearby private boaters worked together to bring all five to safety. Three of the victims were taken to a local hospital with minor injuries.
Among those who helped Nov. 2 was a 12-year-old Oceanside Junior Lifeguard who was fishing with family when he spotted the capsized boat, according to the Fire Department. He quickly alerted another vessel and assisted in the rescue.
“This incident showcases exactly what the Junior Lifeguard Program is all about,” lifeguard Sgt. Lola Swank said in the Fire Department’s report. “Our youth learn not only lifesaving skills but also how to stay calm, think critically, and help others in moments of crisis. We couldn’t be more proud to see one of our Junior Lifeguards put those lessons into action in a real-life rescue.”
Both incidents remain under investigation, and the Oceanside Fire Department urges boaters to check surf forecasts, wear lifejackets and use extra caution when navigating in or out of the harbor, especially during high surf conditions.
This report was written using artificial intelligence, then edited and fact-checked against source material. View our AI policy on the About Us page.
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