26-Year-Old Swept Out to Sea, Then His Friend’s Quick Thinking Changed Everything

It all began as just a fun night surf before a man had to save his friend who was swept out to sea. The 26-year-old was knocked off his board by strong waves near Haskell’s Beach in California. His quick-thinking friend saved his life.

While the unnamed surfer was being pulled out by a current, back on shore his friend noticed his surfboard had washed up. He immediately called 911 and reported him missing at sea. It was nighttime, so the surfer’s danger was increased with limited visibility.

A Man Saves Friend Who Was Swept Out to Sea

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Officials soon arrived, infrared drones at the ready. With the drones, they located the man about a quarter of a mile out from the shore. Then, they guided rescue swimmers to his location using a floodlight.

They found the surfer waiting for help, hanging on to a lobster trap buoy, which he was fortunate to have found. They had him cling to a line buoy, and towed him back to shore. The whole rescue took 30 minutes.

A Quick Call Leads to Quick Rescue

Once back on land, the surfer was safe and sound with no injuries. He didn’t need any medical attention. 

The Santa Barbara County Fire Department gave thanks "to the quick-thinking friend," as well as "the dedicated firefighters and the life-saving drone technology."

Fire Department Says: Be Smart About Where You Surf

“It comes in handy on night calls, obviously, but even just mountain rescues, trail rescues — and ocean rescues as well,” Santa Barbara County Fire spokesperson Mike Gray said of the infrared camera.

"The surfer was able to make it back home safely," added the department. 

It added a warning to others, “Don’t go into the ocean alone in rough conditions. It matters.”

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Thank God that the young man’s friend was watching out for him. If he hadn’t noticed the board that washed up and quickly called for help, his friend’s life could have been at greater risk. This goes to show that it’s important to assess when and where you surf, and always have someone with you in case things go south.

WATCH: 26-Year-Old Swept Out to Sea, Then His Friend’s Quick Thinking Changed Everything

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h/t: People

Featured Image Credit: Instagram/santabarbaracountyfire

Michaela Gordoni is an avid reader and part-time globe-trotter. With a bachelor's degree in International Relations and experience in the non-profit world, she has a passion for people and reporting. You can check out her portfolio here.