Visitor injured at Brennecke’s

POIPU — A swimmer knocked over by a wave may have injured his back or neck Thursday at Brennecke’s Beach.

Ocean Safety officials report that a 57-year-old male visitor was injured about 9:45 a.m. He was walking out of the water to shore when a wave apparently hit him from behind and caused him to land face-first in the sand.

The man sustained an abrasion due to the fall but was able to make it to shore on his own, according to county spokeswoman Sarah Blane.

Kauai Police Dispatch sent out a call at 9:50 a.m. regarding the individual. Responders from nearby Poipu Beach Lifeguard Tower reported minutes later that the man was responding.

Kauai Fire Department rescue personnel reported the man had likely suffered a neck injury.

“Lifeguards, firefighters and medics responded to the scene and performed spinal precautions,” Blane said. “The man was then transported by Medics to Wilcox Memorial Hospital for further treatment. His current condition is not known.”

Ocean Safety officials encourage beachgoers to check the ocean report or speak to a lifeguard before heading out, as conditions can change dramatically in a short period of time. Always swim near a lifeguard tower and never turn your back to the ocean.

The National Weather Service has posted a High Surf Advisory until at least 6 tonight for all east facing shores. During the high surf advisory beachgoers can expect strong breaking waves, shore breaks and rip currents, making swimming difficult and dangerous. There is also a potential for strong currents at exposed locations on the north, east and south facing shores.

For a detailed daily ocean report, buy The Garden Island  and check out the weather report on page 2.