A night out fishing in Fairfield turned into a potentially life-threatening situation for two men from New York.

According to officials, the men were near Penfield Reef Wednesday around 7 p.m. when the tide came in.

Officials say one man was able to swim to shore after losing sight of the reef, while the other swam to the Penfield Lighthouse and stayed there overnight.

Nearly 12 hours later, a person who lives on the beach spotted him and fire crews brought him to safety.

Police have a message for fishermen.

“It's imperative that they get in early while the reef is still exposed, so they don't get caught out with the tidal waters,” says Lt. Robert Kalamaras.

After investigating, officials found out the man who swam to shore took a cab home.

Police say both men are OK.