Lifeguard Impaled by Beach Umbrella Speaks Out: 'I Was Very Lucky'

Near-Death Experience at Asbury Park

• 🎯 An 18-year-old lifeguard named Alex was impaled by a beach umbrella in Asbury Park during a freak accident.
• ⚠️ The incident occurred when Alex fell from a lifeguard chair while trying to secure a large umbrella, which was not properly tied down.
• ⚡ A gust of wind caused the umbrella to blow away, leading to her fall onto the six-foot pole.

The Injury and Immediate Aftermath

• 🚑 The umbrella's 1-inch thick rod pierced through her armpit and out of her back.
• 🤕 Alex described feeling freaked out initially but remained composed, asking for a towel to shield her eyes from the sun.
• 🛠️ First responders used a band saw to cut off parts of the pole before transporting her to the hospital.

Recovery and Outlook

• ✅ Alex is recovering at home after surgery and is expected to make a full recovery within a few weeks, with stitches in her armpit area.
• 🏥 She expressed understanding of how lucky she was, noting that the pole missed major blood vessels and nerves, passing only through muscle.
• 🏖️ Despite needing six weeks off, Alex is eager to return to lifeguarding, a job she has been passionate about since she was 15.

Safety Reminder

• 📢 Alex hopes her story serves as a reminder to always tie down and secure beach umbrellas to prevent similar accidents.
• 💨 The incident highlights the dangers of unsecured objects on windy days at the beach.