Know before you go
Safety basics from the National Weather Service, Oregon State Parks, the Port and ODA.
Know before you go
Sneaker waves
Waves can surge at least 150 ft up dry beach, often after 10–20 minutes of small waves. Watch the water for 20 minutes first, never turn your back on the ocean, and stay off logs: soaked logs weigh up to several tons and the surf can roll them.
Source: NWS: sneaker waves · Oregon State Parks: beach safety
The Chetco bar
Flashing amber lights on the harbor signs mean a Coast Guard bar restriction. Listen on 1610 AM or VHF Ch. 16. Cross at slack water or on a flood tide, and check the marine forecast and bar camera first.
Source: Port bar guide (PDF) · Bar camera · NWS PZZ356 forecast
Shellfish toxins
Call the ODA hotline 1-800-448-2474 the day you harvest. A closed beach reopens only after two clean samples at least a week apart. Gut crab, discard the butter and cooking liquid. If you feel ill after eating shellfish, see a doctor and report it to the county health department.
Source: ODA closures
Tides & tide pools
An incoming tide can strand you away from shore, so know when it turns, especially at secluded beaches and tide pools. Take extra care at extreme tides and in storms.
Source: Oregon State Parks: beach safety · NOAA tides 9430104
Emergency: call 911. Full checklist on the safety page.