Ocean City prepares for Fourth of July as record crowds head to Jersey Shore

The holiday is underway at the Jersey Shore and in Ocean City, New Jersey, the crowds keep growing.

Holiday-like crowds have flocked to the shore all week long as AAA predicts nearly one million people from the Philadelphia area will travel over the 4th of July weekend.

Ocean City officials are warning beachgoers to be safe, be cautious, and only swim when lifeguards are on duty.

This comes after nine people were rescued at the 9th Street beach on Saturday after they were caught in a strong rip current.

Ocean City Beach Patrol said the incident serves as a reminder to only swim in the ocean when a lifeguard is on duty, which is after 10 a.m.

Businesses on the Ocean City boardwalk say they’re overstaffed to prepare for the holiday rush.

The fireworks will serve as the grand finale of Ocean City’s Fourth of July festivities at 9 p.m. near the Music Pier.

Officials say the best view from the beach or Boardwalk is between Fifth Street and 14th Street.

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