It's My Opinion: Heartfelt Condolences

The lifeguard stand at Haulover Beach had two signs: “Swim in guarded area only” and “No lifeguard on duty.” Recently, several vacationers ignored the warning and entered the ocean from this isolated spot.

Three of these men would soon be caught up in an inlet known for its rip currents. Despite valiant efforts by an off-duty police officer and a lifeguard on a Jet Ski, two of them lost their lives.

The two who perished were businessmen from New York. One was a diamond dealer. The other was a real estate developer. They were pillars in the Satmar communities of Brooklyn and Kiryat Joel.

One can hardly fault the desire of these men to enjoy the beautiful sand and surf Hashem has created. They went to a deserted part of the beach to have an innocent swim. Obviously, they were trying to comply with the halachic directives on modesty by avoiding mixed swimming. Many have done the same thing.

Summer is here and many will be entering the ocean, lakes, and pools. Unfortunately, some of these warm-weather encounters have the capacity for disaster. The proverbial tide can turn quite quickly.

Take precautions. Heed all warnings and posts. Most of all, make sure there is always a lifeguard on duty.

We offer our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the men who drowned. May we only hear good news in the future.