he town of Emerald Isle is implementing an additional double red flag this year to close beaches when they are deemed unsafe.
This is the first time that the town has implemented this additional flag; these cautionary measures are beingdone in response to the four drowning deaths that have already occurred in 2019 on Emerald Isle’s beaches.
The flag system is meant to keep beachgoers safe. Red flags flying at the beach mean that there is a high risk of danger in the water from rough seas and rip currents. Double red flags mean the beach is closed and beachgoers found in the water can be fined for not following the posted flag conditions.
Emerald Isle Fire Captain Norman Bryson said while there are signs explaining what the flags mean at each beach access, visitors and vacationers may miss them. He encourages residents and the town’s lifeguards to educate others who look new to the area.
“We encourage it on our social media pages. Residents, please spread the word ‘safety’ here in Emerald Isle to those who need it,” Bryson said.
The lifeguards in Emerald Isle are currently undergoing extra training and Capt. Bryson said they will be ready to start working on May 22.
Continue to be safe and follow the posted flag conditions that are set at the beach. Educate yourself, family and friends of the dangers that the ocean can pose and how to best avoid those situations.
Subscribe
