June is National Safety Month across the United States and in observance, Dare County has provided an array of safety tips pertaining to residents, visitors, and even pets. Keep the following in mind next time you hit the beach:
Beach & Ocean Safety
Summer is almost here, and as everyone who lives in or visits Dare County knows, there’s nothing better than a day of fun in the sun at the beach! To ensure your beach days are memorable for all the right reasons, it’s important to follow a few tips for staying safe this summer—especially when it comes to playing in or around the ocean. To sign up to receive daily beach condition updates via text message, text “OBXBeachConditions” to 77295.
You can also visit www.LoveTheBeachRespectTheOcean.org, where you will find a wealth of information and videos about rip currents, red flag warnings, the dangers of digging holes on the beach, the location of local lifeguard stands and much more. Live like a local: Love the beach, respect the ocean!
Beach Bonfires
Summer fun often includes barbecues and bonfires, and if you plan to partake in these activities this season, Dare County Emergency Management advises you to follow a few safety tips to protect yourself and your property. Remember that bonfires are not permitted in the towns of Kitty Hawk, Kill Devil Hills, Duck and Southern Shores. Bonfires are allowed in the Town of Nags Head as well as along the Cape Hatteras National Seashore; however, you must obtain a permit, which will only be issued if weather conditions are suitable for fires. For more information, and to obtain a permit for a beach bonfire, please click here.
Grilling Safety
If you’re planning a cookout, be sure to use only propane, charcoal and wood pellet barbecue grills outdoors as indoor use can start a fire or cause carbon monoxide poisoning. Although grilling on a deck is permitted at most single-family dwellings, public safety officials recommend placing your grill in the driveway or on a fire-resistant pad to reduce the very real risk of causing a structure fire at your residence. Place your grill several feet away from any siding and deck railings, and never use it under eaves or overhanging branches. Keep a small dry powder fire extinguisher handy in case the flames get out of control and you need to take action quickly.
CPR Training
A key component of safety is knowing how to perform CPR in case you ever encounter someone who needs life-saving assistance. OBXCPR, a North Carolina nonprofit and proud provider of Red Cross training, will provide two CPR/automated external defibrillator (AED) training classes at the Virginia S. Tillett Community Center (VTCC) in Manteo this month. The classes are scheduled to be held at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, June 13, 2023 and 9 a.m. on Tuesday, June 27, 2023. These classes are designed to provide attendees with the knowledge and skills needed to help save a life. There is no cost for the training; however, there is a $26 fee if you’d like to obtain Red Cross certification. To register for a class, please call the VTCC at 252-475-9270.
Pet Safety
Summer days are perfect for spending time with your four-legged friend, but they also pose some serious dangers if you aren’t careful on your outdoor adventures. Remember that hot sand and asphalt can cause serious injuries to your pet’s paws, so steer clear of the beach during the hottest times of the day, and aim to take your dog on walks in the early morning or evening hours. When you take your dog to the beach, be sure to also bring along a bowl and a bottle or two of fresh water for them to drink. Consuming large amounts of salt water not only leads to dehydration, vomiting and diarrhea—it can also be fatal for your furry friend.