Three teenagers are lucky to be alive after an after hours rescue at Manly Beach this weekend.
The three teenagers, who were reportedly not able swimmers and familiar with the area, became dangerously fatigued and caught in a rip just as local lifeguards and volunteers had clocked off for the day.
One of the Manly Life Saving volunteers present told Manly Observer the team was washing down about 6pm when two bystanders ran to them in a panic.
“They pointed towards the Manly pipe and said three were in need of help.
“When Surf Life Saving (SLS) and ambos arrived on the scene, one patient was feeling exhausted and safely on the shore but the other two were still out treading water, caught in a rip and taken out deeper,” he said.
“A board rider tried to help, the life guard and a two volunteers swam out and rescued the male first, followed by the female. Both were faint and exhausted, dipping in and out of consciousness.
Oxygen was provided to all three.
“The last female had to be carried to the ambulance.”
All three were taken by ambulance, though we understand the woman required extra care.
Rips are one of the greatest and most common hazards on Australian beaches and often present a great risk to those unfamiliar with them.
Knowing what a rip is, how to spot one and how to avoid one is key to staying safe at the beach.
You can learn more here: https://www.surflifesaving.com.au/beach-safety/rip-currents/
