Rip current risks and what you can do to help save someone’s life
NEW HANOVER COUNTY (WWAY) — With several rip current risks and water rescues this week in the cape fear, you can never be too safe.
Novant Health Education Coordinator for New Hanover EMS David Glendenning says administering CPR as quick as possible could be the different between life and death.
“As long as your circulating blood with these patients meaning hands only compressions before we arrive, you’re at least circulating hopefully oxygen and blood that’s still in the victims blood system.”
During this week alone, WWAY learned in several beaches across the cape fear that multiple calls were placed to water rescues. While first-responders can certainly help, the public can help before they arrive.
“Absolutely you should know CPR. Because, what if you’re at a beach where they are actually doing an emergency on one side, or maybe it’s a less secluded beach that doesn’t have many life guards or any life guards at all; and you don’t know what to do when this victim gets pulled out and put on the beach during cardiac arrest.” said Glendenning.
While CPR can certainly help save lives, its also important to look at the rip current forecasts for the day. Oak Island Water Rescue Chief Carl Mauney said its important to pay attention at all time.
“The most important thing I would say is know what the hazard is for the day. Know what the rip current risk is whether it’s a green, yellow or red flag day. Pretty much all the beaches would say if it’s a red flag day, don’t swim.”
