Staying Safe by the Shore: Understanding Rip Currents and Warning Flags on Oak Island
The beaches near St. James — including Oak Island — are beautiful, but the ocean can be unpredictable. Rip currents are one of the most dangerous hazards for swimmers and are responsible for the majority of lifeguard rescues at ocean beaches.
A rip current is a powerful, narrow channel of fast-moving water that flows away from shore. They can form quickly and are often difficult to see. Knowing how to identify them — and what to do if you're caught in one — can save your life.
Understanding Beach Warning Flags
Oak Island uses a color-coded flag system to communicate current ocean conditions:
- Green Flag — Low hazard, calm conditions.
- Yellow Flag — Medium hazard, moderate surf and/or currents. Use caution.
- Red Flag — High hazard, high surf and/or strong currents. Swim near a lifeguard.
- Double Red Flag — Water closed to the public. Do not enter.
- Purple Flag — Dangerous marine life present (jellyfish, stingrays, etc.).
What to Do If Caught in a Rip Current
- Stay calm. Panicking wastes energy and increases danger.
- Do NOT swim directly against the current toward shore — you will exhaust yourself.
- Swim parallel to the shore until you are out of the current, then swim back to the beach at an angle.
- If you cannot escape, float or tread water and signal for help.
- Call for a lifeguard or wave your arms to attract attention.
Oak Island's Proactive Approach
Oak Island has taken meaningful steps to improve beach safety for residents and visitors alike. The town employs seasonal lifeguards at designated beach access points and posts daily flag conditions at each access. Rip current warning signs are placed along the beach strand, and the town works closely with Brunswick County Emergency Management and local fire departments — including St. James — to coordinate water rescue response.
- Lifeguards are stationed at designated beach accesses during peak season.
- Daily flag conditions are posted at each beach access point.
- Rip current warning signs are placed along the beach strand.
- Oak Island coordinates water rescue response with Brunswick County Emergency Management and local fire departments.
Prevention Tips
- Always swim near a lifeguard station.
- Check beach conditions and flag status before entering the water.
- Never swim alone.
- Supervise children at all times — never leave them unattended near the water.
- If in doubt, stay out.
For water emergencies, call 911 immediately. The St. James Fire Department EMS team responds to water-related emergencies in our district.
Key Safety Tips
- Always check the beach flag color before swimming.
- Never swim alone — always have a buddy.
- If caught in a rip current, swim parallel to shore, not against the current.
- Supervise children at all times near the water.
- Swim near a lifeguard whenever possible.
- When in doubt, stay out of the water.