We are Corolla Beach Rescue

Our response area covers approximately twenty three miles of oceanfront beach, and 100 square miles of the Currituck Sound. At the peak of the season, we operate eighteen stationary lifeguard towers and eleven roving patrols.

Here's what we did last summer

+ 1,108,275

Visitors

+ 173

Rescues

+ 34,249

Advisories

+ 31,745

Questions

Learn more about rip currents

What is a Rip Current?
As waves travel from deep to shallow water, they break near the shoreline and generate currents. A rip current forms when a narrow, fast moving section of water travels away from shore. Rip currents often form in deeper spots, like breaks in the sandbar, and near structures like piers, jetties and groins. They can pull even the strongest swimmer away from shore.
READ MORE
(Link to National Weather Service/Rip Current Science)
Account
Text SAFECOROLLA to 888-777 for safety notifications sent to your phone
How to Spot A Rip Current
  • Rip currents are easier to see from an elevated position.
  • Look for gaps in the surf, or areas where waves don't break.
  • Rippled, foamy, or choppy water that appears to be moving away from shore.
  • Areas with darker or lighter colored water could indicate turbulence caused by rip currents.
  • Flash rips occur suddenly, so watch for several minutes before getting in.
  • Ask the lifeguard if there are active currents and any other daily advisories.
READ MORE
(Link to National Weather Service/Rip Current Science)
Account
Text SAFECOROLLA to 888-777 for safety notifications sent to your phone
Know What To Do
  • Don't fight against the current.
  • Swim out of the current, usually to the side, and then to shore.
  • If you can't escape the grip of the current, float on your back, or tread water.
  • If you need help, call out or wave for assistance.
  • Never try to assist someone in trouble without first taking flotation with you.
  • If in doubt, don't go out. And always swim near a lifeguard.
READ MORE
(Link to National Weather Service/Rip Current Science)
Account
Text SAFECOROLLA to 888-777 for safety notifications sent to your phone
Flag Warnings
  • Yellow flags on flagpoles indicate dangerous surf and/or currents are present. Weak swimmers are discouraged from entering the ocean. For others, enhanced care and caution should be exercised. Always swim near a lifeguard, and swim with flotation.
  • Yellow flags on white PVC poles indicate a danger to swimmers in a specific area. These are temporary warnings usually found near the high-water mark on the foreshore. Swimmers should avoid these areas and check with the lifeguard for additional information.
  • Red flags on flagpoles indicate hazardous conditions are present such as strong surf and/or currents. No swimming, wading, or use of flotation devices are permitted, except for use of a fiberglass surfboard with a leash. Violation of the Red Flag Ordinance is punishable by fine not more than $500.00 or by imprisonment for not more than 30 days. Currituck County Ordinance 9-5 .
  • No flag warning does not indicate swimming in the ocean is safe. Due to the constantly changing beach conditions, swimmers should always respect the ocean and exercise caution.
READ MORE
(Link to National Weather Service/Rip Current Science)
Account
Text SAFECOROLLA to 888-777 for safety notifications sent to your phone

Surfing Outer Banks

Around Corolla

Lifeguard Tower Locations

Lifeguard towers are staffed everyday from 9:30 to 5:30 throughout the summer.

COROLLA WEATHER

MOTHER

MOTHER

OCEAN

OCEAN

Can you run a mile in less than 8 minutes? Can you swim 500M in less than 10? If so, Mother Ocean is looking for you! Complete our online job application and get ready for one of the most fun and challenging jobs you could ever have!

Prior lifeguard experience is not required! We provide paid training, including CPR/AED, Advanced First Aid, and Ocean Lifeguarding. Starting pay is $18.00 per hour, and we pay signing and seasonal bonuses. Housing is available in Corolla.

SUMMER

IS

COMING

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