(Boca Raton Fire Rescue Media Release)
Sunday, May 20, 2018 at 7:43PM
Fire Rescue units were dispatched to a “Water Rescue” in the Atlantic Ocean at 3000 South Ocean Boulevard on May 20, 2018. Initial information indicated a woman was screaming in the water and being carried out by a rip current and an unknown male was swimming out attempting to help her. Boca Raton Fire Rescue Engine 3 responded with Medic 3, Engine 8 and Battalion 1.
Upon arrival units found a woman and a male being carried out by the rip current. The crews from Engine 3 and Medic 3 utilized the Rescue Paddleboard, Peterson Buoy and fins from Engine 3 and entered the water. In addition, Ocean Rescue Captain Tim Fry responded as well. Firefighter Sherry Griffith, Lieutenant Mike Sember and Captain Tim Fry all entered the water and swam towards the distressed swimmers who were approximately 200-300 feet from shore. The currents were extremely strong, along with very rough surf breaking over them, but the three were able to reach the victims quickly. The female victim was exhausted and could not help herself any longer and was placed on the paddleboard and the male was assisted with the Peterson Buoy. Due to the nature of the rip current and conditions, it took some time to get to a spot where they were able to swim back in. With assistance from Broward Sheriff's Office (BSO) Fire Rescue, Medic 75 and our units, our personnel and the distressed swimmers were assisted back to shore. BSO Fire Rescue transported the female, in stable condition, to North Broward Medical Center.
Firefighter Sherry Griffith, Lieutenant Mike Sember and Captain Tim Fry made the difference in the outcome of this call and made it a successful rescue. This team effort is a great example of the excellent service provided by our City agencies. These individuals will be recognized at the next Badge & Award Ceremony on Friday, June 22, 2018 at 3:00PM, at the 6500 Building Auditorium.
