Lifeguard Shark Attack Rescue Jersey Shore New Jersey 2022

Shark attacks have been on the rise in recent months. It almost feels like new shark encounters are being reported daily.

It got me thinking: What are Jersey Shore lifeguards trained to do in the event of a shark attack?

Thanks to Ortley Beach Lifeguard Brian Cerbone for the information on this sensitive topic.

fun fact: I heard that the reason there are so many shark attacks these days is because the ocean is getting cleaner.

This means that the water is clearer and therefore sharks see humans more often as they get closer to shore.

Hm, I wonder if it’s true!

What are Jersey Shore lifeguards trained to do during a shark attack?

Unfortunately, we would have to sit until it is safe to enter. We are trained not to put ourselves in a dangerous place.

Is there anything New Jersey lifeguards can do without putting themselves at risk?

The only thing we could do is take a surf boat to try to get between the shark and the person. But unfortunately you are not going to put another lifeguard or person in danger.

How do you know when it’s safe to return to the water after a shark attack?

We will have binoculars tracking the shark and we will communicate with other lifeguard stations by radio. We communicate your location and which direction you are traveling until the coast is completely clear. However, the shark usually comes and goes faster than we can get out into the water.

What are the warning signs that the public should be aware of?

We have a flag system and the purple color means the presence of marine life that is dangerous. But then again, by the time we get it up to the flagpole, it’s probably gone.

In most cases, we usually pull swimmers out of the water and tell them it’s for safety reasons. We track the shark as it leaves and then allow swimmers to return to the water once we believe it is safe.

Any final words, Brian?

Take care and always listen to the lifeguards!

Lifeguards are there to keep you safe, but I think everything Brian said made sense. How can first responders keep you safe if they themselves are in danger?

Be aware of your surroundings and if you are concerned, try to get into the water only when you have a partner with you. That way, you know that someone else always has their eyes on you at all times.

Weird question: Would you ever have a pet shark? Or would you prefer something more exotic?