Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Firefighters Rappel to Save Swimmer Stranded on Cliff at Ocean Beach

Officials say a rip current at Ocean Beach pulled a visiting swimmer off course.

Overview

  • San Francisco firefighters rescued a woman clinging to a cliff by the Cliff House on Wednesday, with the operation finishing at 4:50 p.m.
  • Fire officials said she had been swimming at Kelly’s Cove when a strong current swept her away from her entry point, prompting her to climb the rocks where she became stuck.
  • A firefighter rappelled down to her position, secured her with ropes, a harness and a helmet, and crews hauled her up to the roadway.
  • The woman was evaluated on scene and reported uninjured, and the fire department said no responders were hurt.
  • Live helicopter footage drew wide attention to the rescue and renewed warnings about Ocean Beach’s 50–55°F water and powerful rip currents linked to past fatalities.