Marine Units Respond To Drifting Kite Surfer Off Penfield Beach

FAIRFIELD, CT — Marine units were called to Long Island Sound near Penfield Beach after a kite surfer experienced problems with his equipment, according to a fire official.

First responders received the report about 3:15 p.m. Thursday after a couple out walking their dog called 911 about the kite surfer, who was drifting away from the beach, Fairfield Fire Department Assistant Chief George Gomola said. When rescuers arrived, they found that the kite surfer had already made it safely back to shore.

"He was embarrassed and a little cold," Gomola said. "His girlfriend, who was on shore, was very grateful for the help."

Emergency personnel checked the man to make sure he wasn't injured or hypothermic, but Gomola said the kite surfer wore the proper gear to protect him from exposure and was in good health.

"Even with a wetsuit you can become hypothermic very quickly," Gomola said. "... It was a prudent response by police and fire."