Oceanside lifeguards rescue four after boat swept into surfline

Oceanside lifeguards rescued four people Sunday after the boat they were in was swept into the surfline by heavy waves, officials said.

Seven lifeguards, aided by six fire personnel, responded to a distress call at 12:25 p.m. and found the small boat just outside the harbor mouth at Harbor Beach.  Rescuers brought everyone to shore, where they were evaluated and released.

After the people were removed from the vessel, the boat overturned in the water, said Battalion Chief Jeremy Brandt.

Oceanside’s Marine Safety Unit secured and towed the vessel out of the surfline to prevent further damage, officials said.

With elevated surf and rip currents expected along San Diego County beaches through Tuesday, Oceanside fire officials reminded beachgoers and boaters to check water conditions before entering the ocean and to wear lifejackets.