Another beach trip turned to tragedy. The parents of six children drowned while on vacation in Florida after getting caught in deadly rip currents.
The couple was from Pennsylvania, visiting with their six children. The family decided to visit Stuart Beach on Hutchinson Island. However, while swimming in the waters, both parents as well as their two teenage children got swept up by the rip current. According to the Martin County Sheriff's Office, the teens managed to escape the current. They attempted to help their parents. However, they couldn't make it to them due to the dangerous waters.
Sadly both Brian Warter, 51, and Erica Wishard, 48, drowned. "The kids were able to break the current and attempted to help their parents, but it became too dangerous and they were forced to swim ashore," the agency wrote on Facebook. Martin County Ocean Rescue lifeguards managed to fish the couple out of the water. They began CPR on shore until first responders arrived. Emergency staff transported both to Cleveland Clinic North..
"Those life-saving efforts continued in the ambulance and at the hospital where doctors gave it every last effort before declaring the couple deceased," the MCSO said. Prior to the tragedy, Martin County Fire Rescue warned about the rip current in the area. In a social media post, they announced red flags for the beach.
Parents Drowned On Red Flag Day
"Happy Thursday! The surf is 4-6 ft and there is a light drift heading north, so be aware if you chose(sic) to go in the ocean," the post read. "The water temp is 77 degrees and there's a(sic) ESE wind blowing about 15-20 mph. We suggest strong swimmers only because rip currents are expected. If you plan on heading to the beach, please visit one of our guarded beaches."
This post was made several hours before the couple drowned. Rip currents can be potentially deadly. The organization warns not to get in the water if there are red flags. Likewise, you should remain cautious even on green flag days. If you get caught in a rip current, the best thing to do is not panic. Swim parallel to shore until you're free or until you get help.
"These signs are posted at every single beach guarded and unguarded. Please, if you're visiting go to guarded beach first. Read these signs. If you're not sure have a lifeguard show you what to look for when spotting rip currents," the post reads.
