Three Kids Sucked Out By Riptide at Maine’s OOB as Beach Rescues Increase

When it comes to things to do during the summer months in Maine, there are hundreds of different options. Some of the most popular include camping, hiking one of Maine's many peaks, or swimming at one of the dozens of ocean beaches the state has to offer.

However, each one of those activities comes with its fair share of associated risks. Though swimming in the ocean, for a multitude of reasons, has become more dangerous in certain parts of Maine this year.

In recent weeks, we have learned about several great white shark sightings that have happened along the coast of Maine, with one of the most concerning being along Crescent Beach in Cape Elizabeth, Maine.

Though sharks aren't the only thing that pose a danger to swimmers in Maine waters, riptides are also a cause for concern even on the most beautiful of beach days.

According to an article published by WGME 13, water rescues at Maine's popular Old Orchard Beach are on the rise this year. The news station reports that the fire department responds to calls that 'pour in' each week for water rescues at the beach.

Fire Chief, John Gilboy, told WGME that on Father's Day alone at Old Orchard Beach, there were 11 lifeguards on duty that responded to 11 different water rescues. Gilboy said that at one point during the day, there were five swimmers that needed rescue all at the same time.

Old Orchard Beach Fire and Rescue Captain Normand Gendron said in part,

"We had three kids get ripped out in riptides over here," referencing a specific portion of beach.

Old Orchard Beach Lifeguard, Captain Keith Willett, told WGME in part,

"If you look at the pier tower, we're running a yellow flag. That's a warning flag. I would not be surprised if you see a yellow flag in the Ocean Park area all season and the pier area all season. Because it's not taking much for these rip currents to really get going."

In 2023, Old Orchard Beach lifeguards responded to a total number of 26 distressed swimmers. As of July 24th, 2024, they have already responded to 39- and the summer isn't even close to over, WGME reported.

Experts believe deteriorating beach conditions caused by large storms eroding dunes are a large cause of the seemingly stronger-than-ever rip currents that are plaguing the beach.

Maine officials remind swimmers to pay attention to the warning flags when they head to the beach and to never venture too far out.