EMERALD ISLE, N.C. -- The town of Emerald Isle is taking extra measures this summer to keep people out of the water in unsafe conditions.

• The fire department flew one of two flags along the beaches: yellow to advise caution and red to advise no swimming
• Beginning this year, officials will fly double red flags to indicate high risk of rip currents
• Anyone swimming under the advisory could be subject to a citation with the police department

Previously, the fire department flew one of two flags along the beaches: yellow to advise caution and red to advise no swimming.

Beginning this year, officials will fly double red flags to indicate high risk of rip currents, an advisory that could lead to a citation if ignored.

“It’s good to have another system in order to keep these people out of the water because it really, down the chain, keeps people safe,” said Ryan Taylor, a lifeguard for Emerald Isle.

Last year the town had three drownings all summer, this year the town has had three drownings before Memorial Day.

Captain William Mathias said he hopes visitors will take the double red flags seriously.

Anyone swimming under the advisory could be subject to a citation with the police department.

Mathias said the goal is not to punish visitors, but to educate them and keep them safe.