Kaua‘i first responders rescue 5 in waters off Kealia Beach Sunday

Five swimmers were rescued by Kaua‘i Fire Department first responders in waters off Keālia Beach on Sunday.

According to a preliminary report, Kaua‘i Fire Department personnel received a report from Kaua‘i Police Department Dispatch shortly before 4:50 p.m. of swimmers in distress in waters off Keālia Beach.

Personnel with the Kaiākea fire station, Ocean Safety Bureau, Rescue 3 and American Medical Response responded to the incident.

When firefighters arrived on the scene, they discovered a lifeguard assisting two swimmers near Keālia Point and another two lifeguards rescuing three swimmers outside the river mouth. Using rescue tubes, firefighters assisted lifeguards and brought the swimmers back to shore.

Personnel with American Medical Response continued treatment on four individuals before transporting them to Wilcox Medical Center. The fifth individual declined medical treatment.

The four swimmers who accepted medical treatment were admitted to Wilcox Medical Center in Līhu‘e. One was admitted in critical condition, one was in serious condition and two were in stable condition.

Firefighters cleared the scene at approximately 6 p.m.