Beach Safety

[ Help Guy ]

Beach safety is an important part of an Outer Banks vacation. Play it safe and smart and you'll leave the beach with memories of fun filled times had by all. Here we provide some helpful tips to keep your vacation a safe one. Enjoy!

WHEN RED FLAGS ARE FLYING, SWIMMING IS PROHIBITED!!
Do not swim in the ocean, these flags fly during dangerous conditions, which aren't always evident to the untrained eye.
Stay 300 feet from all fishing piers while in the water.
Flotation Devices are NOT a substitution for swimming ability.
Strong breezes and tide changes can cause dangerous drifting
Inexperienced swimmers should stay in wading deep water.
Be careful of dangerous rip currents and sudden drop offs.
Be careful around surfers.
When in trouble, signal a lifeguard by shouting "Help!".
Swinging your arms in a violent motion will tire you out quickly, it is better to conserve your energy and call for help.
Keep an eye on your children at all times!!
Do not swim alone.
Choose a beach with lifeguards on duty.
- Corolla: 9:30am - 5:30pm
- Duck: 9:30am - 5:30pm
- Southern Shores: 10am - 6pm
- Kitty Hawk: 10am - 6pm
- Kill Devil Hills: 9:30am - 5:30pm
- Nags Head: 10am - 6pm
- All beach areas are covered by roving lifeguard beach patrols
Be aware of rip currents in the area you are swimming.
Rip currents have a noticable difference in water color, a gap in the breaking waves and foam or other objects moving steadily out to sea.
If caught in a rip current, DON'T PANIC!
Swim parallel to the shore until you are clear of the current. If you can't break free of the rip current, let it take you out beyond the breakers. Then swim diagnolly toward shore. Never try to swim against the current!