Oak Island Water Rescue discusses water conditions with Hurricane Ernesto off the coast

OAK ISLAND, NC (WWAY) — Red flags will be flying at all area beaches this weekend including Oak Island.

Hurricane Ernesto creating an increased rip current risk as it churns in the Atlantic. Oak Island Water Rescue Chief Carl Mauney is doing everything he can to to prepare beach goers.

“We’ve put up our red flags. We’ve tried to get it out on social media and other sources as much as we can that its really a no swimming weekend, because of the rip currents. They’re just too strong,” Mauney said.

Mauney suggests that if you do see someone who is in trouble in the water, there are a few things you can do to help the person in need.

“Well if you see someone that’s in distress, the most important thing is don’t go into the water without flotation, because then you too could become a victim. Call 911 immediately, that’s important. Oak Island does have rescue devices on the beach, as do some other beaches. If you’re a competent swimmer and you feel comfortable doing that, then by all means grab that device, put it over your shoulder and swim out,” said Mauney.

One of the people on the beach this weekend is Lindsay Schafer and her family, who own a beach house in Oak Island. She urges those who are not familiar with the water to remain cautious of the conditions.

“My best advice would be to not get in the water. But if you have to just to cool off, just don’t swim out too far past your knees and get into a current where it pulls you or anything. Don’t try to fight it, just let it take you and swim to the side.”