Lifeguards make about 100 rescues Friday in Newport

-- Alex Coolman

Local beaches were pumping with a solid southwest swell Friday, with

clean weather conditions and 4- to 6-foot faces making for good surfing.

The swell activity was a little hazardous for inexperienced surfers

and swimmers. Capt. Eric Bauer of the Newport Beach Fire and Marine

Department said lifeguards made about 100 rescues Friday. The surf did

not produce the huge rescue numbers and serious injuries that accompanied

the large waves that hit Newport at the beginning of this month, he said.

The waves are expected to hold steady today, Bauer said, with

head-high peaks at the best breaks. The swell will slowly wind down

Sunday.