Carolina Beach population to triple this summer: How first responders adapt

CAROLINA BEACH, NC — Carolina Beach is gearing up for its 100th summer season. 

Each summer, the population of the coastal town swells from 7,000 full-time residents to around 30,000 people. That surge, that’s common in beach communities, brings a sharp rise in emergency calls. 

“We may average a couple calls a day in the dead of winter, and we could see as many as 20, 25 calls in a day,” said Fire Chief Alan Griffin, who has served in the town for 13 years. 

To handle the seasonal demand, the fire department increases its on-call staff and hires about 45 seasonal lifeguards.  

“Summertime we see more of the medicals, the water rescues, the boater-type situations, and swimmers,” Griffin said. “Where, in the winter, it’s going to be some medical, but that’s were we do see more things like our fires and fire alarms.” 

To keep visitors informed, the department also uses the Carolina Beach Lifeguard Instagram page — which has more than 60,000 followers — to post rip current alerts and flag warnings. 

The fire department also works hand-in-hand with police. Police Chief Vic Ward said managing large events presents one of the biggest challenges during the season. 

“The beach music festival, the craft and fair shows we have every Saturday, every Thursday night we’re doing fireworks and concerts,” Ward said. “So yes, you have the beach, but then we’re busy down here with additional events.” 

Ward said while some events attract rowdy crowds, most visitors are there to have a good time. 

“Most of them are on vacation, and we work with people,” he said. “We’re not looking to be aggressive in our enforcement. Normally, 90% of the time, 95% of the time, it’s just about talking to people.” 

Despite the busy season, Ward said the department is well prepared to meet the needs of both residents and visitors. 

“It’s a challenge, but it’s something that we look forward to,” he said. “That’s our time. That’s when we shine.”