Possible Drowning Near OKI Pier
This morning at 11:57 AM, Oak Island Water Rescue, Oak Island Fire Department, and Oak Island Police Department were dispatched to the beach near the Oak Island pier for a report of a male subject floating in the water near the end of the pier. We responded with our surf-launch boat 4491, two 4×4 trucks, and several crew members. Upon arrival, a female swimmer was making her way back to the shore, very close to the pier. Concerned citizens had called 911 because she did not appear to be moving, but in fact was fine. We always encourage people to err on the side of caution, as we would much rather respond and not be needed than the other way around. The lady, who was surprised by the substantial response, was informed about the dangers of swimming too close to a fishing pier. While Oak Island does not have any specific ordinances against swimming close to the piers, it is highly recommended to follow the same laws that govern surfing, which is to remain at least 350 feet away from any pier. In addition to submerged dangers around any pier, there is usually a greater concentration of marine life (many of which you don’t want to mess with) that congregate in these areas.
