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Hurricane Florence: First responders warning of strong rip currents at local beaches

Surfers are taking advantage of the local impacts of Hurricane Florence.

Many who were out in the lineup at St.Augustine Beach Wednesday said it’s a good distraction from the storm taking aim at their Carolina homes.

“I just hope family and friends are safe,” Brandon Merrick explained.

MORE: Hurricane Florence's track shifts slightly south upon landfall

Local surfers told Action News Jax they don’t see a lot of good waves in the area, so they’re enjoying the ideal conditions.

Rayce Redell described, “Pretty much if the red flag is up, it’s time to surf.”

According to the Action News Jax First Alert Weather Team everyone needs to pay attention to the red flags indicating a high risk of rip currents.

On Monday, rescue departments in Jacksonville and St.Johns County warned everyone to stay out of the water.

Surfers said they take their own precautions when they venture out.

“The main thing is just don’t get tired. Do everything to make sure that you don’t get tired. It’s not going to stop for you,” Redell said.