Rip Current rescues reported at Carolina and Wrightsville Beaches

CAROLINA BEACH, NC (WWAY) — Lifeguards at New Hanover County beaches responded to multiple incidents on the Fourth of July, with Carolina Beach Ocean Rescue reporting five rescues as of midday and Wrightsville Beach Ocean Rescue reporting six. According to the national weather service.

Carolina Beach Ocean Rescue Captain Shawn Kelly said the day had been busy for his team. Around noon, lifeguards were actively monitoring two swimmers who had raised their arms in the water — a possible signal for help.

Kelly said some of the calls they respond to are not just related to surf conditions but also to medical emergencies related to heat.

For those entering the water, Kelly shared advice on what to do if caught in a rip current.

“Swim parallel to shore and if you can best thing you can do is just raise an arm flag down a lifeguard wait it out float it out and then obviously just trying to stay as calm as you can until we can get to you,” Kelly said.

He also said the current flag condition at Carolina Beach is yellow, meaning swimmers should use caution and stay in areas where they can touch the bottom. Kelly said he expects the yellow flag to remain in place through the weekend but added that beachgoers will be updated if conditions change.