By the time the catamaran had capsized for the 3rd time the SWFD showed up. One of them walked down to the edge of the gulf and watched as civilians continued retrieving people from the catamaran. The remaining 5-6 firepersons stood at the top of the walk over for Beach Crest and watched through bincoulars.
The catamaran was finally uprighted and brought to shore.
No one was hurt and the 8 yearold girl that was brought in was visible shaken but fine. One of the paramedics appeared to take her blood pressure.
A woman who was not involved other than to be on the beach was furious that the rescue personnel didn't enter the water. I didn't engage her since the outrage was a little over the top for the situation. Having reflected on the situation I realized the following.
No one was in distress, all were wearing life jackets or actively trying to upright the catamaran.
The fire department was called and my understanding is that they are not normally called for water rescues and were fully clothed.
Long story short everyone was okay, the catamaran apparently was missing a plug in one of the hulls that caused it to fill with water and thus continuously capsize.
P.S. KDW and Jfunn have pics. They're supposed to post them, but it may take some time.
