Brendan Tighe, a Jersey Shore surfer who became known for surviving a fall from a 20-foot wave in December, recently saved the life of a man struggling to swim in the same waters. While surfing off Belmar, Tighe heard someone yelling for help and paddled over to assist the man who was struggling in the cold 50-degree water. He shared a video of the rescue on his Instagram to raise awareness about proper rescue techniques.
Describing the incident on his social media, Tighe explained that he encountered a nearly unconscious swimmer floating on his back and drifting out to sea without a wetsuit. Tighe acted quickly, pushing his surfboard to the man to prevent himself from being pulled underwater during the rescue. Despite getting caught in a riptide, Tighe successfully pulled the man to safety with the help of the surfboard. Paramedics, police officers, and Coast Guard officers then took over the rescue effort on shore.
While the rescued man was cleared by medics and is expected to be okay, Tighe emphasized that the situation could have ended differently had he not been there to help. The local lifeguards also warned about the dangers of cold water temperatures that can lead to hypothermia, especially in the pre-season when no lifeguards are present at the beach. A tragic incident occurred just a few blocks away when a 23-year-old man drowned in the waters off St. Clair Avenue Beach in Spring Lake where no lifeguards were on duty.
As a surfer with lifeguard training and CPR certification, Tighe called on fellow surfers to be vigilant and ready to assist struggling swimmers when needed. He highlighted the importance of knowing one’s limits and being cautious in the ocean, urging people to be aware of the potential risks associated with swimming in cold water or when lifeguards are not present. Tighe’s actions exemplified the impact that surfers can have in saving lives in emergency situations, showcasing the importance of being prepared and ready to help others in need.
Tighe’s rescue of the struggling swimmer serves as a reminder of the critical role that surfers and beachgoers can play in assisting those in distress in the water. By sharing his experience on social media, Tighe hopes to educate others on the importance of being prepared to handle emergency situations and the need for caution when swimming in potentially dangerous conditions. His quick thinking and lifeguard training were instrumental in ensuring the safety of the man he rescued, underscoring the importance of being alert and responsive in times of crisis.
In conclusion, Tighe’s heroic actions demonstrate the valuable contribution that surfers can make to water safety efforts and the importance of being prepared to assist others in need. His bravery and quick response in rescuing a struggling swimmer highlight the critical role that surfers with lifeguard training can play in preventing tragedies in the water. By raising awareness about the dangers of swimming in cold water without proper precautions, Tighe hopes to inspire others to be vigilant and ready to help those in distress. Ultimately, Tighe’s rescue serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of water safety and the potential impact that individuals can have in saving lives through timely and effective interventions.
