Wildwoods Mayors Urge Beach-Goers To Obey Rule After Several After-Hours Rescues

WILDWOOD, N.J. (CBS) -- Officials in Wildwood, Wildwood Crest and North Wildwood are coming together in an effort to warn beach-goers about the danger of taking to the water after lifeguards are off-duty.

The mayors of all three beach towns released a joint statement on Tuesday, urging people to observe the rules put in place at their towns' beaches and to not go in the water unless a lifeguard is on duty.

Officials said that in the last 48 hours, two major rescues took place. During both, lifeguards were not on duty. On Saturday, officials say six people were rescued around 8:20 p.m. in North Wildwood and three were rescued shortly after 7:00 p.m. on Sunday in Wildwood; an incident that officials say included a fatality.

"With the recent after-hours rescues and hurricane season quickly approaching, it is more important now than ever that our visitors are aware of our beach rules and regulations, and to only swim when the lifeguards are on duty," said Mayor Patrick Rosenello of North Wildwood.

"The ocean and beach are the most beautiful, environmental assets that our communities have to offer, but it does not come without risk," said Wildwood Crest Mayor Carl Groon.