Lifeguards Rescued 105 Swimmers and Treated 52 Stingray Injuries

Even before the holiday weekend, the Seal Beach Life Guard Department had an exhausting week with 105 rescues, three boat rescues, and 52 stingray injuries in the week ending Sept. 1.

A dramatic swing in conditions contributed to the high volume of stingray injuries and rescues, according to Seal Beach Lifeguard Department Chief Joe Bailey.

The week began with the flat surf preferred by stingrays. After treating dozens of people for injuries, some of the biggest surf of the season rolled in with strong rip currents and surf in the 3 to 4-foot range.

Lifeguards also helped rescue two people dumped into the ocean a mile off shore when their 19-foot sale boat flipped over amid windy conditions. Lifeguards entered the water and were able to flip the boat right side up again and pick up both of the victims.

In addition to rescuing 105 people, the department took the lead on a rescue effort to find a 24-year-old Long Beach man who went missing while swimming off the coast of Surfside Wednesday. The search and rescue operation continued into Thursday when it was and Jowayne Binford is presumed to have drowned.

“This is a tragic event and our thoughts and prayers go to the family of the victim,” Bailey said in a written statement.