Surf City officials warn of rough beach conditions

SURF CITY, NC (WWAY) — According to Surf City Fire Department and Ocean Rescue, first responders received six swimmer distress calls last week.  

Fire Chief Allen Wilson said the majority of those calls came from those visiting the beach from out of town, which makes water safety education a top priority.  

Last month, the department installed safety stations with safety information and flotation devices at all 39 beach accesses. Wilson said even with those safety stations, you should never swim alone. 

“First and foremost don’t swim alone. That’s the one thing that we really like to drive home. Another thing that we want to drive home too is that your safety is your responsibility,” Wilson said. 

Wilson added that beach goers should take flag warnings seriously, especially when red or yellow flags are flying.