Firefighters Who Saved Boy From Rip Current At Smith Point Lauded

SHIRLEY, NY — A day at the beach at Smith Point County Park could have turned tragic for a boy being swept out to sea by a rip current — but two off duty firefighters saved the day.

Suffolk County Legislator Rudy Sunderman joined recently with Suffolk Legislature Presiding Officer Rob Calarco and Brookhaven Councilman Neil Foley to present proclamations to Justin Owens and Steven Welsh for their life-saving efforts.

On July 12, North Patchogue Fire Department members Owens and Welsh were enjoying a day off on the outer beach at Smith Point County Park when they were alerted that a 12-year-old in distress was being dragged into the ocean by a strong rip current and was struggling to stay afloat, Sunderman said.

Without hesitation, both firefighters leaped into action and immediately swam out to the child. They were able to keep him afloat and bring him back to the safety of his parents on the shore, where the child was then evaluated by EMS for injuries, Sunderman said.

There is no doubt that without the quick actions of Owens and Welsh, the incident could have ended tragically, he said.

“In this day and age where we are constantly searching for heroes and role models, it is comforting to know that we have firefighters such as Justin Owens and Steven Welsh,” said Sunderman. “These true heroes risked their own health and safety to save the life of a stranger. They are a shining example of how all of our first responders selflessly serve to protect others.”