Ocean Rescue and Coast Guard warn about rip current dangers

WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH, NC (WWAY) —  Thursday marks the official start of summer, which means plenty of people will head to the beach. But along with fun comes the potential for danger.

In 2017, 113 people died because of rip currents across the nation. 12 of those were in North Carolina.

In just the last month, there have been 57 water rescues at Wrightsville Beach. That’s why the Coast Guard and Ocean Rescue Squad wanted to share tips on how to stay safe while in the water.

“Just because the water looks calm and inviting, sometimes it always isn’t that,” said Lt. John Scull with Ocean Rescue.

Scull says there are tips to avoid rip currents, like looking at landmarks on the beach to see if you are drifting. But if you do get caught in one, the key is to stay calm.

“To not panic, to relax as best they can, float, try and swim out of the current if they can, parallel to shore,” said Scull.

While Ocean Rescue demonstrated rip current rescues, the Coast Guard took a step back.
However, that isn’t always the case.

Ryan Lederer, a machinery technician second class with the Coast Guard, said there are situations where they will participate in a rescue.

“Depending on how far the person has gone out to sea, we do respond to that,” said Lederer.

Lederer says working together with Ocean Rescue benefits everyone.

“Knowing how each other responds to whatever the case may be, really helps each other out, and how close we are in proximity to them,” said Lederer.

Ultimately, Lt. Scull said the best way to get out of a rip current is to avoid it altogether.

“Look at the lifeguard stands, look at the conditions, the flags they’re flying that day, and if in doubt don’t go out.”