Rip currents lead to Jersey Shore rescues

Rip currents are keeping lifeguards busy at the Jersey Shore.

Authorities say a drunken man attacked two lifeguards at a Jersey Shore beach after they helped rescue him from a rip current.

Seaside Heights Police Chief Tommy Boyd tells WNBC-TV in New York that the man and his friend were swept out to sea by the current Saturday night. Two lifeguards swam out and were able to get the men safely back to shore.

But when two other lifeguards came over to help, the man allegedly became combative and struck one of the lifeguards in the jaw. The man was charged with simple assault, disorderly conduct and underage drinking.

None of the lifeguards suffered any serious injuries during the rescue or when they were attacked.

The Asbury Park Press reports three men swimming off Lavallette were rescued by lifeguards Saturday after they became caught in a dangerous undertow. The men initially were spotted shortly before noon by two police officers who were patrolling in the area.

The three swimmers were all taken to a hospital for observation, but were later released.

Water rescues were reported Saturday at beaches in Sea Bright and Seaside Heights, where lifeguards swam out to rescue distressed swimmers. But no serious injuries were reported.

Authorities were warning swimmers about the rip currents on Sunday, as large crowds packed Jersey Shore beaches.

Lifeguards made some additional rescues on Sunday afternoon, but no injuries were reported.