The unofficial start of summer means beachgoers are beginning to swim in the ocean.

News 12 New Jersey's Ali Reid discussed with Seaside Heights Mayor Tony Vaz on Sunday how they are keeping swimmers safe on their beaches.

"The best point is to go to somebody that is familiar with the water tide, and this will save a life if they listen," Vaz said.

Lifeguards first went on duty at the beaches on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Vaz said the lifeguards are excellent swimmers, have been trained on how to use the equipment and how to rescue someone.

Two rescues occurred in Seaside Heights on Friday and four on Saturday, according to Vaz.

“It’s traumatic because people think they can swim a distance, the rip tide pulls them and they aren’t familiar on what to do,” he said.

In many rescue cases, multiple departments from neighboring towns are called for backup.

“We are all volunteer, we all work together and train as much as possible. We rely on each other to make sure rescues get made,” said Ocean Beach Volunteer Fire Company Chief Drew Calvo.

Calvo urges residents to be cautious when they visit the beach.

“Keep an eye on the water. Look for rip currents and don’t swim in a location with no lifeguards,” he said.

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