Teens lucky to be alive — Coastguard
Four teenagers swept out to sea at a Bay of Plenty beach by a strong current are “extremely lucky” to be alive after Coastguard volunteers leapt into action last Wednesday.
About 2.30pm, volunteers of the Maketu¯ Coastguard were at a beachside cafe when they heard screams and saw four heads bobbing in the water.
The four teenagers were being carried out to sea by a strong current.
“Without hesitation, Coastguard Maketu¯ president Shane Beech rushed to the scene, alerting unit volunteers to launch the unit’s jet skis immediately,” a Coastguard statement said.
The teenagers had become separated in the water.
Six people, including two locals who helped in the rescue, were brought safely ashore.
“Coastguard rescuers retrieved two teenagers on the jet skis, while local surfers assisted the other two, keeping them afloat until the Coastguard could return from shore to pick them up,” the statement said.
“Local Maketu¯ first responders,
along with police and off-duty lifeguards, were present to provide support and assistance.”
Two of the teenagers had swallowed a “significant amount” of water and were taken to hospital by Hato Hone St John.
Shane emphasised the importance of beachgoers familiarising themselves with local conditions, particularly the swift outgoing tide at Maketu¯ .
“This is what we train hard for, it’s what we do.
‘”We were able to respond almost instantly and our crew performed exceptionally well.
“The teenagers were extremely lucky, and we’re just so happy that we were able to bring them back to shore safely.
“This incident serves as a reminder to visitors that understanding beach conditions is crucial for safety.”