Fire Department: Beware of Massive Waves

Massive waves up to 20 feet high continue to slam the shores of Newport Beach today, and the Fire Department is reminding surfers and swimmers to respect the waves.

The bombs are the biggest near the Wedge, at 18th and 56th streets, according to Jennifer Schulz of the Newport Beach Fire Department. Naturally, many surfers have been out in the water taking advantage of the waves, but Schulz said safety needs to be the top priority.

"There are very strong currents that people need to be aware of.  Additionally, it is not safe to go out on the rock jetties," Schulz said. "Even as the swell begins to subside, people need to be aware of occasional large sets that may come to shore less frequently."

Beach Safety Tips

1.  Always swim near a lifeguard.

2. Make sure you know how to swim.  

3.  Never swim alone, always swim with a friend.

4.  Don't fight the current! If you are caught in a rip current, don't fight it by trying to swim directly to shore. Swim parallel to shore until you feel the current relax, then swim to shore.

5.  Don't drink before swimming. Always swim sober.

6.  Remember! Surfboards and body boards should be used only with a leash.

7.  Non-swimmers often use floatation devices, such as inflatable rafts or body boards, to go offshore. If they fall off, they can quickly drown. No one should use a floatation device unless he is able to swim. Use of a leash is not enough because a non-swimmer may panic and be unable to swim back to the floatation device, even with a leash.

8. Serious, lifelong injuries, including paraplegia, occur every year due to diving headfirst into unknown water and striking the bottom. Bodysurfing can result in a serious neck injury when the swimmer's neck strikes the bottom. Check for depth and obstructions before diving, then go in feet-first the first time, and use caution while bodysurfing, always extending a hand ahead of you.

9. Always wear sunscreen while at the beach or outdoors.  Sunburn is the most common injury resulting from people going to the beach. 

10.  Be careful around the fire rings or fire pits.  Coals can still be very hot from the night before, so never let children walk on the sides of them or play nearby.  Additionally, there can be hazards nearby, such as glass or clothes hangers, in the sand.

11.  Pick up your trash when you leave!