Young Lifeguard Returns to Beach After Near-Fatal Umbrella Incident

An 18-year-old lifeguard, who was recently impaled by a beach umbrella during a sudden gust of wind, has resumed her duties at the shore. The accident narrowly missed major arteries, leaving her with a severe but recoverable wound.

Alex Kaus, from Robbinsville, was setting up an umbrella atop an Asbury Park stand when a strong gust caused the stake to pierce her arm. She describes feeling “very lucky” that the umbrella missed critical blood vessels, as it only went through her muscles. She has been recuperating and is now back near the ocean, checking beach badges while her injury heals.

Although she is not yet cleared to return full-time to her lifeguard duties, Kaus hopes to spend at least two more weeks on the stand before returning to college. She is currently monitoring her recovery closely.

The incident occurred during her second year on the job, following standard safety procedures. According to the beach operations chief, the placement of the umbrella was just two inches from a potentially more serious injury. Kaus, who is also a student at the University of Wisconsin, reflected on her experience, saying she sees herself as fortunate and remains optimistic about returning to her role soon.