Stay Safe in the OBX: Weather, Health, and Beach Safety
Peace of Mind in Paradise: Safety Tips for J-1 Exchange Visitors
While your time in the Outer Banks will hopefully be full of sunshine, beach days, and new experiences, it’s also important to be prepared for unexpected events. From severe weather to everyday safety, this guide is here to help you stay safe and know what to do—just in case.
🌪️ Weather in the OBX: What to Expect
The Outer Banks is known for its beautiful coastlines, but like many coastal areas, it’s also vulnerable to hurricanes and tropical storms, especially between June and November.
Most storms pass without major damage, but being prepared is essential.
⚠️ What to Do in Case of a Hurricane:
Listen to local news and alerts from your employer, sponsor, or local authorities.
Follow evacuation orders immediately if they are issued.
Keep important documents in a safe, waterproof folder (passport, DS-2019, Social Security card).
Have a small emergency bag ready with essentials (medication, snacks, water, flashlight, phone charger, and clothes).
📌 If an evacuation is ordered and you need help, OBX ISOP may activate its Emergency Fund to assist J-1 exchange visitors with transportation and shelter.
Stay connected through email or social media for real-time updates.
🚨 Local Emergency Contacts
📞 Police, Fire, or Medical Emergency: 911
📍 Closest Hospital: The Outer Banks Hospital – Nags Head, NC
📞 Phone: (252) 449-4500
🏥 Urgent Care Centers (Corolla to Hatteras)
Below is a list of urgent care centers along the Outer Banks where you can receive medical help for non-life-threatening issues:
1. Outer Banks Health Urgent Care – Kitty Hawk
📍 5112 N. Croatan Hwy, Kitty Hawk, NC 27949
📞 (252) 449-7474
🕐 Open daily from 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
💡 Services: On-site lab, minor procedures, COVID/flu/strep tests, sports physicals
🌐 outerbankshealth.org
2. Surf Urgent Care – Kill Devil Hills
📍 400 S. Croatan Hwy, Kill Devil Hills, NC 27948
📞 (252) 441-7870
💡 Services: Acute care, lab and radiology, walk-in service
🌐 surfurgentcare.com
3. Outer Banks Health Urgent Care – Nags Head
📍 5002 S. Croatan Hwy, Suite A, Nags Head, NC 27959
📞 (252) 449-6115
🕐 Open daily from 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
💡 Services: On-site lab, urgent tests, minor procedures
🌐 outerbankshealth.org
4. The Outer Banks Hospital – Nags Head
📍 4800 S. Croatan Hwy, Nags Head, NC 27959
📞 (252) 449-4500
🕐 Open 24/7 for emergencies
💡 Full-service hospital with ER services
🌐 chesapeakeregional.com
📌 If you're staying in the Hatteras area, urgent care options are limited. In emergencies, dial 911 or head to the nearest available facility listed above.
🚲 General Safety Tips
J-1 exchange visitors often walk or bike to work, so personal safety is especially important in the OBX:
While Biking or Walking:
✔ Wear reflective gear and bike lights, especially after dark
✔ Ride your bike with traffic and walk against traffic
✔ Stick to well-lit streets—avoid highways or roads with no sidewalks
✔ Lock your bike with a U-lock, even during the day
While Out in Town:
✔ Travel in groups when possible
✔ Be cautious when using rideshares or taxis—stick to known companies
✔ Keep your phone charged and carry a copy of your ID
💡 Everyday Emergency Situations
You lost your passport?
➡ Contact your home country’s embassy or consulate and notify your sponsor immediately.
You feel unsafe at work or home?
➡ Speak with your sponsor immediately. You are protected under U.S. law and have the right to a safe environment.
You are injured or sick?
➡ For serious injury, call 911 or go to the emergency room. For less serious issues, visit an urgent care center.
🏖️ Beach Safety Tips for J-1 Exchange Visitors
The beach is one of the best parts of living in the Outer Banks—but it’s important to enjoy it safely and responsibly. Here’s how to make the most of your beach time while staying out of danger:
🌊 Know the Ocean Conditions
✔ Check for red flags or posted warnings before entering the water
✔ Obey lifeguard instructions—they are there to keep you safe
✔ Look for daily surf and weather reports at weather.gov or local beach apps
🌀 Beware of Rip Currents
Rip currents are powerful, narrow channels of fast-moving water that can pull swimmers away from shore.
How to escape a rip current:
➡ Don’t panic.
➡ Swim parallel to the shore until you’re out of the current, then swim back to the beach.
➡ Never swim directly against the current—it will exhaust you.
📌 If you're unsure about the water, don’t go in. Even strong swimmers can be caught off guard.
🚫 Never Swim Alone
✔ Always go with a buddy
✔ Let someone on shore know you’re swimming
✔ Avoid swimming at night or when lifeguards are off duty
🧴 Protect Yourself from the Sun
✔ Apply sunscreen regularly (SPF 30 or higher)
✔ Wear sunglasses and a hat
✔ Drink lots of water—don’t wait until you’re thirsty
🩴 Watch Your Step
✔ Sand gets extremely hot—wear sandals or water shoes
✔ Be cautious of sharp shells, jellyfish, or debris
✔ If you get stung or cut, clean the area and visit urgent care if needed
⚠️ Don’t Drink and Swim
It’s never safe to enter the water under the influence of alcohol. It slows your reaction time and increases your risk of injury or drowning.
✅ Final Tips
✔ Know where the nearest hospital and urgent care centers are
✔ Keep your documents and emergency contact info in one place
✔ Follow OBX ISOP and your sponsor for alerts and emergency info
✔ Stay calm, stay informed, and reach out if you need help