As we move into the fall months, I wanted to remind everyone about ocean safety, particularly now that our lifeguards are no longer stationed along the beach.
One of the great things about living in Kure Beach is being able to enjoy the beach year-round. However, rip currents, rough surf, and other dangerous ocean conditions can occur throughout the year, even when the weather is nice.
We have now installed emergency rescue buoy stations at all 25 public beach accesses throughout Kure Beach. These stations provide immediate access to flotation equipment and rescue instructions in the event someone gets into trouble in the water.
Last year, when we only had 12 stations installed, we had two confirmed rescues involving the rescue buoys. Since then, we've expanded the program to include every public beach access in town.
In addition to the rescue equipment, each station has been assigned a designated location number that has been entered into the 911 Communications Center. If someone calls 911 from the beach, they can provide the number posted at the station, allowing dispatchers to identify their exact location and direct emergency responders to the correct beach access.
Identifying someone's location along the beachfront can be challenging, especially when the caller is unfamiliar with the area. These designated locations help eliminate confusion and reduce delays in getting emergency personnel to the correct location.
A few things to remember when visiting the beach:
-Locate the nearest rescue buoy station. Take a few seconds to identify the station and its location number when you arrive.
-Call 911 immediately if someone is in trouble. Provide the location number so emergency responders know where to respond.
-Don't become a second victim. The rescue buoys provide flotation equipment, but you should never put yourself in danger attempting a rescue.
-Check ocean conditions before entering the water. Rip currents and dangerous surf can occur even on days when the weather appears calm.
The purpose of this program is to provide lifesaving equipment throughout the year while improving our ability to locate and respond to emergencies along the beach. The equipment has already been used in two confirmed rescues, and with stations now installed at all 25 public beach accesses, it is available throughout Kure Beach. I encourage everyone to take a minute to familiarize themselves with these stations the next time they're at the beach and as always, stay safe.
Edmund C. Kennedy, EFO
Fire Chief
Kure Beach Fire Department
Cell: 910-409-9398