Overview
- Two bystanders swam out Saturday and helped two children and two adults who could not return to shore because of a strong current.
- The incident took place off Sandy Neck Beach near 590 Sandy Neck Road with the adults about 100 yards farther offshore than the children.
- Barnstable police said they received the distress call around 11:31 a.m. and first responders reached the scene to assist.
- West Barnstable firefighters evaluated everyone on shore and confirmed there were no injuries and no one needed hospitalization.
- Strong nearshore currents can quickly overwhelm swimmers by pulling them away from the beach, so staying close to shore and heeding local warnings reduces risk.