Are there lifeguards at Wrightsville Beach?
Yes, the fire department’s Ocean Rescue Squad is responsible for ensuring public safety on the beach strand. Led by a full-time coordinator, Ocean Rescue employs 22 seasonal lifeguards from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Our Ocean Rescue program is certified by the U.S. Lifesaving Association. We staff nine lifeguard stands, and we also patrol the entire length of the beach strand using all-terrain vehicles and a personal watercraft. All seasonal lifeguards are certified in lifesaving and first aid. Our lifeguards are supported by full-time fire department staff who are certified EMTs. Lifeguards also assist bathers by providing public information, recovering lost children, and enforcing beach regulations. Our Ocean Rescue Squad is on duty from 10AM to 6PM, seven days per week from Memorial Day until Labor Day.
