A young lifeguard was impaled by a beach umbrella stake at Asbury Park’s 3rd Avenue Beach, turning what should have been a routine beach day into a horrifying moment. The incident, which happened Wednesday morning, involved a woman who was found trapped by an umbrella stake protruding through her left shoulder. First responders, including Asbury Park Fire Chief Kevin Keddy, cut the stake off to facilitate transport to the hospital, where the victim was reported to be alert and conscious.
The cause of the incident is under investigation, but officials have issued safety warnings about securing umbrellas properly to avoid such accidents. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has also highlighted the growing concern over airborne umbrellas, which have resulted in fatalities and serious injuries in recent years. According to a 2024 report from the commission, airborne beach umbrella incidents have become ‘too common,’ emphasizing the need for public awareness and proper safety measures.
While her condition was unknown, Keddy said she seemed to be doing OK when she was taken to the hospital. The incident has sparked a renewed call for vigilance among beachgoers and lifeguards alike. The Asbury Park Beach office was contacted for comment, but no response was received as of now. Safety experts continue to warn that high wind gusts can send umbrellas airborne, making them a significant hazard on crowded beaches.
Officials have recommended that individuals always anchor umbrellas properly and remain alert for changes in weather conditions. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable dangers that can arise at seemingly safe recreational destinations. As the summer season continues, such safety reminders become increasingly crucial to prevent similar tragedies in the future.