#Cape hatteras national seashore n.c skin#

ATVs, UTVs, and motorcycles are not permitted on Cape Hatteras National Seashore beaches. Permits can be purchased online at (search for Cape Hatteras ORV).

Vehicles must be licensed, insured and registered. How can I access the beach with my vehicle?įor beaches open to off-road-vehicle use, a permit is required. Be safe and always keep your distance from all wildlife. Shark encounters are still extremely unlikely, but use of the above recommendations will further reduce the chances of injury, and allow you to more safely share the park with these spectacular animals. Avoid brightly colored swimwear as sharks see contrast particularly well.Leave shiny objects at home as the reflected light resembles fish scales.Don't go into the water if bleeding from a wound as sharks have a very acute sense of smell.Avoid being in the water during darkness or twilight as sharks are most active at these times.Stay in groups as sharks are more likely to attack a solitary individual.Please follow the steps below to reduce the already extremely slim chance of encountering a shark. However, the presence of these animals necessitates preparedness. Sharks are a normal and important part of the natural surroundings we enjoy at Cape Hatteras National Seashore. If stung by a jellyfish, seek first-aid if needed and pour vinegar on the wound to stop the stinging, but don't rub. Jellyfish are present in the ocean waters. Be on the lookout for them and pay attention to the snake warning signs posted in areas of known snake habitat. Be sure to check yourself for ticks after being outdoors.Ĭape Hatteras National Seashore is home to several venomous snakes: timber rattlesnakes, eastern diamondback rattlesnakes, Carolina pigmy rattlesnakes, copperheads, and cottonmouths. Be prepared with insect repellent and netting for camping and other island-related activities. Nonetheless, they are nuisances and can make your trip an unpleasant one. Mosquitoes, ticks, and other insects serve a purpose in the scheme of things. Think safety before leaving your vehicle. People add to that with glass, metal, fishhooks, and nails. You may come across sharp objects such as broken seashells, crabs, cactus, and spurs. The seashore is beautiful, but often, on the beach and in the sound, you'll find dangerous debris. Be mindful of this and always fill in any holes you dig before you leave the beach. Holes also pose a significant threat to people and wildlife alike enjoying the beach, especially during low-light conditions. When playing in the sand, never dig a hole too deep where you find your head below the sand. Sand is a very unstable medium and is prone to collapsing. What should I know about digging in sand? Be sure to apply sunscreen liberally before heading outdoors and remember to reapply often throughout the day.

#Cape hatteras national seashore n.c skin#

What should I keep in mind about the sun?īesides the heat, the sun's ultraviolet radiation can cause skin burns, which can lead to skin cancer. Enjoy the beach, but limit your physical activity and exposure during days of high heat and humidity. With an air temperature of 90º Fahrenheit and a humidity of 80%, the apparent temperature is 113º Fahrenheit! Heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke are possible during elevated apparent temperatures. What should I know about the hot temperatures?Ī combination of high temperature and high humidity creates an even higher and possibly dangerous apparent temperature. For current weather conditions contact the National Weather Service at 25 or follow them. Lightning is extremely dangerous and does strike the beach! If you can hear thunder, seek shelter immediately, as lightning can strike up to 25 miles from an apparent storm. The weather at the Outer Banks can be unpredictable.

Children should swim only with adult supervision.Please follow the steps below to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience at the beach. What are some things I can do to be as safe as possible while swimming?