šØš OFF-DUTY NJ LIFEGUARD JUMPS INTO ACTION, SAVES 11-YEAR-OLD GIRL FROM ROUGH OCEAN CURRENTS šš
Off-duty lifeguard Ryan Gibson rescued an 11-year-old girl from rough currents at Cape May Point on Wednesday. Gibson and fellow lifeguards brought the child to safety at a rock jetty after she was pulled away from the shore.
š CAPE MAY POINT, NJ ā An off-duty New Jersey lifeguard is being praised for his quick thinking and bravery after rescuing an 11-year-old girl who was pulled into the ocean by dangerous currents.
According to the Cape May Police Department, the incident happened around 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, August 12, when Cape May Point Lifeguard Ryan Gibson was off-duty and playing volleyball with friends after completing his shift.
Gibson noticed the young girl struggling in the rough ocean conditions and immediately entered the water to help. He was able to reach the girl and bring her to a nearby rock jetty.
š The girl had swallowed water and was treated on scene by emergency responders after being brought safely to shore.
Gibson suffered minor scrapes and scratches from the rocks during the rescue.
Several other beachgoers, including a professional photographer who was taking family photos nearby, also attempted to assist but were quickly overwhelmed by the dangerous conditions.
š Off-duty Cape May Point Lifeguards Ben Swan and Matt Gibson heard the rescue being broadcast and immediately responded to assist.
Cape May Police praised Gibson, Swan, Matt Gibson and the other beachgoers who stepped in, calling the incident a true example of courage, selflessness and teamwork.
ā ļø Officials are reminding beachgoers that ocean conditions can change rapidly and become extremely dangerous, even when the weather appears calm. Always swim near lifeguards and follow posted warnings and instructions.
š Garden State News Network salutes Ryan Gibson, Ben Swan, Matt Gibson and everyone who stepped up to help!
šø PHOTO CREDIT: Cape May Police Department