A kite surfer stranded on a California beach used rocks to spell the word "HELP," leading to his rescue on Sunday, authorities said.

 

A private helicopter spotted the man on a beach south of Davenport Landing and alerted authorities after seeing the distress message made of rocks.

 

The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL Fire) in the San Mateo and Santa Cruz unit shared a video of the rescue on social media, showing the beach at the base of a long, steep cliff.

 

A kite surfer was rescued off a beach south of Davenport Landing after being stranded. He used rocks on the beach to spell out the word “HELP.” He was spotted by a private helicopter who then called for well, help! #CaWx @sccounty (MORE ⬇️) #California pic.twitter.com/wpUbTDlis6

— CAL FIRE CZU (@CALFIRECZU) June 10, 2024

 

The video shows a CAL Fire helicopter sending a rescuer down to the kite surfer. The rescuer secured the man, and both were lifted above the cliff to safety. The "HELP" sign was clearly visible along the shore. Authorities have not clarified how long the kite surfer, whose identity has not been disclosed, was stranded before being rescued. Fortunately, he did not require medical attention, CAL Fire reported.

 

The rescue was a joint operation involving CAL Fire, the Santa Cruz County Fire Department, and California State Parks.