Stranded paddleboarders rescued 2,000 feet offshore of NC’s Oak Island

OAK ISLAND, N.C. (WNCN) — Two young people on a paddleboard needed water rescue assistance Wednesday after officials said they had become stranded.

Within three minutes of the call that went out at 3:36 p.m., fire crews and the Oak Island Water Rescue team responded to discover that they were unable to paddle back to shore because of strong winds and currents, the Oak Island Fire Departments said.

Using a camera and on-board speaker, crews communicated with the paddleboarders. They said the two were not in distress and remained calm as a recue boat was sent their way.

The rescue boat, Unit 4491, was launched from the beach at SE 49th Street with a personal watercraft on standby at Barbee Blvd.

Aboard the rescue boat to offer on-water assistance were members of the U.S. Coast Guard. Within a total 20-minute period, the response ended with both young paddleboarders safely returning to shore—and to their parents.

“The calm actions of these individuals, along with the swift and coordinated response from multiple agencies, ensured the best possible outcome from this situation; and provides a great educational opportunity for others with similar interests,” the fire department said in a statement.

Before visiting the beach, the department said it’s important to be informed on how to enjoy it safely and responsibly. You can view a list of these reminders on the Oak Island website.