Surf Camp Team

Dave
Ocean Rescue Director
Instructor for US Governmental Agencies

In 1978 Dave started his lifesaving career in South Florida. Prior to coming to Southeastern NC, he has been honing his skills in the waters known as the "Graveyard of the Atlantic".

"The sea is unique for the Outer Banks, producing waves and currents that will challenge the most seasoned waterman / woman while making a rescue. The waters off the coast of the Outer Banks of North Carolina, are very dynamic with conditions changing not each day but by the hour and minute. You only have to read the stories of the Lifesavers stationed in the late 1800's to understand the perilous waters off the coast." Dave stated.

Along with his Ocean Rescue duties in the Outer Banks, Dave was an instructor for the United States Coast Guard Helicopter Rescue Swimmers along with training the United States Secret Service water rescue division in surf zone awareness and rescue within the impact zone. He has continued that relationship establishing the same professional guidance with the Coast Guard in the area and is developing a new program to present the United States Secret Service water rescue division who internally call themselves W.A.L.R.U.S.S.S. meaning, Water Air Land Rescue United States Secret Service.

The training that is delivered to the Ocean Rescue lifesavers under his guidance is to the highest of standards as established by the the most recognized lifesaving association in the United States. Other responsibilities he accepts with known dangers fall within the emergency services division of the Fire Department, where he is a trained professional firefighter and experienced EMT. When asked how he felt about his duties he said with a laugh and a shrug of his shoulders "I guess I'm a one stop rescue shop".

With his experience in Ocean Rescue, Dave is a member of the Rip Current Awareness Strategies Team (RCAST). Where the best in the field from National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration's National Weather Service (www.ripcurrents.noaa.gov) and National Sea Grant (www.seagrant.noaa.gov ) are developing a multi-agency outreach program. This vision in which Surf Camp is a major part of, is to strive toward the elimination of Rip Current fatalities through education.

"Too many people die needlessly when they visit the beach. Rip currents can be killers. It is estimated that the annual number of deaths due to rip currents on our nation's beaches exceeds 100. Rip currents account for over 80% of rescues performed by surf beach lifeguards". Dave said.

When asked why he accepted his role as a consultant for Surf Camp, …… "What Surf Camp brings, is the professionalism that any individual should require when learning a new skill, like Rick says, "Learn the Right Way", The only way to achieve this is to learn from a trained professional in that area of expertise. I know I want that when I look for advancing my skill level!"…….. Dave continues, " It also is an excellent opportunity to educate and inform those on Rip Current awareness and other related water hazards, which is the mission of RCAST".

"Dave is as professional as it gets, and we are very fortunate to have him as part of our training team", says Rick. It can also be arranged for Dave to be present for any Ocean Rescue concerns or peace of mind safety you may have on your vacation or during any program that Surf Camp facilitates. Please contact us on his availability and to get in touch with him.

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*Dave's last name and Ocean Rescue Division of the Municipality he works for is intentionally left off, due to the inability to endorse a business as a town employee. Dave has done this as a private individual who works exclusively within the emergency service system. He has not received any compensation for endorsement.