OAK ISLAND — On the afternoon of June 19, two minors were rescued by Oak Island’s fire, police, and water rescue departments with assistance from the U.S. Coast Guard, after being pushed 2,000 feet from shore on a paddle board.
The minors, who were sharing a paddle board, were found stranded in the ocean near the Barbee Boulevard beach access, unable to return to shore due to strong currents and winds. According to the town’s report, the minors were “not in distress and remained calm” during the ordeal.
Rescue teams arrived at the scene within three minutes of being called. The drone unit was deployed, facilitating communication with the paddle-boarders via a camera and speaker.
Oak Island Water Rescue Unit 4491 and the Coast Guard rescued the minors on the water. The entire rescue mission lasted 20 minutes, and the minors were safely returned to a parent on shore.
In response to the incident, the town issued reminders to beachgoers and ocean swimmers:
- Stay aware of water conditions.
- Wear personal flotation devices (PFD) and life jackets, regardless of swimming ability.
- Remain calm in emergencies.
“The calm actions of these individuals, along with the swift and coordinated response from multiple departments and agencies, ensured the best possible outcome from this situation and provided a great educational opportunity for others with similar interests,” stated the report.
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