WESTERLY, R.I. (WPRI) — Four swimmers are lucky to be alive after becoming caught in a rip current at East Beach Saturday evening, according to the Watch Hill Fire Department.

Watch Hill Fire Chief Dennis Reall Jr. told 12 News Monday that first responders rushed to the beach upon being alerted by lifeguards to several swimmers who were in distress.

Reall said four lifeguards successfully swam out to the distressed swimmers and secured each one of them.

Passengers on a nearby boat helped the swimmers and lifeguards aboard and brought them to a dock off of Bay Street to be evaluated by paramedics, the chief added.

"Thank God everything worked out perfect," he said.

First responders warned beachgoers of dangerous surf and strong rip currents this weekend as a result of Hurricane Ernesto churning offshore.