Fire Island Beaches Reopen After Possible Shark Bites Reported

FIRE ISLAND, NY - The National Park Service announced on Thursday that Fire Island National Seashore's beaches are open to swimmers following the bite injuries reported this week.

The two lifeguarded beaches were closed to bathing on Wednesday after two people were reportedly bitten in the waters at Sailors Haven and Atlantique.

Police are still investigating the source of the bites. They could not confirm if the bites came from sharks.

In addition, Islip Town Supervisor Angie Carpenter announced on Thursday, that all ocean beaches within the Town are open, and with heightened alertness. Lifeguard coverage begins at 11 a.m, as regularly scheduled.

Suffolk County Police Department resources will provide added assurance to swimmer’s safety from the air. A morning flight was completed with no sightings.

"The safety of all beach goers is our first priority," Carpenter said. "We will continue to monitor our beaches throughout the day, and make necessary recommendations whenever appropriate. Communication with our partners on the state, county and local levels is ongoing."

A Town of Islip spokesperson confirmed to Patch that a 13-year-old boy was bitten in the leg at Atlantique Beach but it is still unknown what bit him.

He was boogie-boarding in the water at the time when he was bitten.

After he came out of the water, a lifeguard took him to a tent where his wounds were cleaned and dressed. EMTs removed a tooth from the teen's leg, and are currently analyzing it to determine the origin.

Officials say his injuries were non-life-threatening and that he was in "good spirits" following the incident.

He was transported to Southside Hospital in Bay Shore.

The second incident at Sailor's Haven involved a 12-year-old girl, officials confirmed. She was taken to Good Samaritan Medical Center in West Islip with non-life-threatening injuries.

Officials say injuries of this kind are rare on Fire Island, however, visitors should always use caution in and around the water.

The following precautions are recommended:

• Always swim between the flags at lifeguarded beaches

• Swim close to shore

• Never swim alone

• Check in with the lifeguard for the most up-to-date information on swimming conditions

The NPS offers lifeguard services at three ocean beaches within Fire Island National Seashore.

Through September 3, lifeguards are on duty seven days a week at Sailors Haven and Watch Hill; and on weekends at Talisman/Barrett Beach.

Image courtesy of the National Park Service