The calendar may say summer is over, but the ocean doesn’t know the difference.

As a nor’easter bears down on the Delaware coast this week, locals and visitors alike should take the storm as a reminder that the ocean can be dangerous long after the crowds have disappeared and lifeguard stands have been packed away.

The National Weather Service has issued a high rip current risk through Saturday evening, along with a high surf advisory warning of breaking waves between 6 and 12 feet. Strong northeast winds, coastal flooding and the potential for significant beach erosion and dune breaches are also expected.

Those warnings should be taken seriously.

But there is another important factor that should be considered: There are no longer lifeguards watching the beaches.

During the summer, trained lifeguards are stationed along the coast, constantly scanning the water and ready to respond when someone gets into trouble. Once the season ends, that safety net disappears.

That doesn’t mean the ocean suddenly becomes less dangerous. In fact, fall storms can create some of the most hazardous conditions of the year. Rip currents can become stronger, waves can grow dramatically, and changing tides and weather conditions can catch even experienced swimmers off guard.

And if something goes wrong, there may be no lifeguard nearby to spot the problem or swim out to help.

That is worth remembering not only during this week’s storm, but throughout the offseason. A warm afternoon in October can make a beach day seem inviting. The water may even look calm from shore. But conditions can change quickly, particularly when storms are approaching or have recently passed.

There is nothing wrong with enjoying Delaware’s beaches after the summer season. Walking the sand, watching the waves and enjoying the quieter shoreline can be wonderful. But anyone considering getting into the water should first check the forecast and beach conditions and understand the risks.