Busy Summer for Old Orchard Beach Lifeguards

Strong riptides have been keeping lifeguards busy this summer.

Growing up on the shore of Popham Beach, I've had a lot of lifeguard friends and even saved a kid myself. Popham has a notoriously strong riptide due to the Morse River. Lifeguards are always busy to say the least. Lifeguards at Old Orchard beach have also been very busy.

This summer they've made 42 rescues, compared to the average 30. Lifeguards tell WGME TV the bad winter created a lot of beach erosion, causing dangerous swimming conditions. It's a good thing they have a snazzy new jet ski with a rescue sled on back to help with the many rescues.

Remember if you do get caught in a rip tide the most important thing to remember is don’t panic.Either swim parallel to the beach, or let it take you out, until help can get to you.