Beach Safety for Currituck, Outer Banks
Each year, thousands of visitors enjoy the beautiful beaches of Currituck on the Outer Banks. Currituck County wants to ensure this natural environment is maintained for years to come. Here are some ways in which you can be safe and follow County ordinances:
- Walking or driving on the dunes is prohibited
- Open burning - including bonfires - along the beaches of Currituck County is not allowed
- Overnight camping on the beach is prohibited
- Stay at least 50 feet from wild horses. Please remember they are wild and should not be fed.
- Do not park or set up beach equipment next to the water's edge or dune line; these are designated Fire, Emergency, and Vehicular traffic lanes.
Swimming Safety/Rip Currents
- If you see red flags flying, this indicates that a rip current has been spotted, or due to the conditions in the water, a rip current is likely. If you find yourself caught in a rip current, do not panic, swim out of the current, parallel to the shoreline.
- Always swim near a lifeguard. If you need assistance, wave your arms for help. You should never swim alone.
- Do not enter the water if you do not know how to swim
Shark Safety (Information from NOAA)
Shark attacks are rare, but they are most likely to occur under the conditions described below:
- Always stay in groups as sharks are more likely to attack a solitary individual
- Do not wander too far from shore -- this isolates an individual and additionally places one far from assistance
- Avoid being in the water during darkness or twilight hours when sharks are most active and have competitive sensory advantage
- Do not enter the water if bleeding from an open wound
- Wearing shiny jewelery is discouraged
Please contact us with any questions.
Corolla Ocean Rescue website