CAROLINA BEACH, N.C. (WECT) – First responders in Carolina Beach and Kure Beach will soon have a new remote-controlled rescue buoy capable of reaching distressed swimmers while keeping rescuers out of harm’s way.
The U SAFE® self-propelled lifebuoy is one of four devices FPTower Inc. is donating to North Carolina coastal communities through its 2026 Save A Life Raffle, where participants voted to select receiving areas. Carolina Beach and Kure Beach were paired during community voting to share one device, with Carolina Beach Ocean Rescue serving as the operating agency.
“We’re grateful to FPTower Inc. and everyone who supported the Save A Life Raffle for selecting our community to receive this equipment,” said Shawn Kelly, ocean rescue captain with the Carolina Beach Fire Department. “The U SAFE® gives us another option for reaching someone in distress while helping us evaluate conditions and manage risk to our rescuers.”…