Call to Reinstate Long Beach Lifeguard Tower After Heartbreaking Drowning
Long Beach in B.C.’s Pacific Rim National Park has long been known for its powerful rip currents—especially near Lovekin Rock, an area responsible for multiple water emergencies over the years. Following yet another tragic drowning, locals and former lifeguards are once again urging Parks Canada to restore the Long Beach lifeguard tower, which was removed in 2012 due to budget cuts.
This year alone, two people have died in the same dangerous waters, highlighting both the need for improved beach safety and the importance of bystander first aid skills.
To read the full original news story, visit the Vancouver Sun article here:
➡️ Call to reopen Long Beach lifeguard tower in wake of latest Tofino drowning
A History of Dangerous Waters
Retired lifeguard Doug Palfrey, who spent 36 seasons patrolling Long Beach, recalls years where he and his team performed up to 30 rescues in a single season.
Even in quieter years, at least eight rescues were made near Lovekin Rock.This is the same location where 52-year-old Ottawa resident Ann Wittenberg drowned after being swept away by a powerful rip on her daughter’s wedding day. Just months earlier, 27-year-old student Nijin John from India also died while surfing in the same area.
Locals believe both tragedies underscore the consequences of removing dedicated lifeguard services.
Why the Lifeguard Tower Matters
Before its removal, the Long Beach lifeguard tower operated much like those found on professional surf beaches worldwide. It was equipped with:
A rescue jet ski
A rapid-response vehicle
Lifesaving surfboards
First aid equipment
Trained lifeguards familiar with the rip currents
Positioned directly in front of the dangerous rip at Lovekin Rock, the tower played a crucial role in preventing drownings and responding instantly when swimmers got into trouble.
Today, only bilingual warning signs remain—a major step down from the lifesaving capabilities once available.
A Wedding Day Turns Tragic
On the morning of the incident, Victoria Emon was preparing for her wedding ceremony at Wickaninnish Inn’s Shell Beach. Her mother Ann and sister Rachel decided to go for a relaxing surf together before the celebrations.
“They were just floating on a surfboard and talking,” Emon said. “Then the current came and got her.”
Rachel stayed on her board and immediately called for help. Several bystanders rushed into the water, pulling Ann back to shore. CPR was started immediately, and paramedics continued lifesaving efforts upon arrival. Despite their best efforts, Ann did not survive.
Growing Surf Culture, Growing Risk
Surfing at Long Beach has grown significantly—from a handful of surfers decades ago to hundreds of tourists and beginners daily. Many are unaware of how quickly ocean conditions can become deadly.
Local experts emphasize:
Beginners should choose more sheltered beaches
Always surf with a partner
Ensure your board leash is properly attached
Take lessons if unfamiliar with ocean currents
Know your limits—even strong swimmers can be caught in rips
Surf shop owner Bill Fend, who rented Ann her surfboard, says staff always warn customers about the risks, but adds:
“Even if you’re a strong swimmer, there are elements you wouldn’t intuitively know.”
Because emergency services can take 20 minutes to reach Long Beach, bystander CPR and first aid knowledge often make the biggest difference.
Why First Aid & CPR Training Matters
The immediate CPR attempts performed by bystanders demonstrate how crucial fast action is in water emergencies. Having the confidence and skill to perform CPR can save lives before emergency crews arrive.
If you want to be prepared to help in real-life emergencies, consider enrolling in a certified CPR & AED training program through Calgary First Aid:
➡️ https://firstaidcalgary.ca/cpr-courses/
Helpful CPR Resources
WebMD – What Is CPR: https://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/qa/what-is-cardiopulmonary-resuscitationcpr
Healthline – CPR Guide: https://www.healthline.com/health/first-aid/cpr
NHS – How to Perform CPR: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/first-aid/cpr/
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