Lifeguard Survives Impalement by Beach Umbrella

A young female lifeguard in Asbury Park, New Jersey, was impaled by a six-foot beach umbrella after losing her balance and falling from her lifeguard stand when a gust of wind struck, causing the pole to pierce through her left shoulder and out her back. Coworkers and EMS responded rapidly, with firefighters sawing off both ends of the pole to facilitate her transport. The lifeguard underwent surgery and was released from the hospital the next day, having sustained no permanent damage and expecting a full recovery within 6 to 8 weeks. She reported feeling fortunate, as the pole narrowly missed vital blood vessels and arteries. The incident has led to a review of beach safety procedures and renewed attention to the dangers of unsecured umbrellas, which cause thousands of injuries in the U.S. annually. The lifeguard has expressed her determination to return to duty once recovered, earning praise for her resilience.