What is a ‘rip current’?

A rip current is a specific type of water current that can occur near beaches where waves break. A rip is a strong, localized, and narrow current of water that moves directly away from the shore by cutting through the lines of breaking waves, like a river flowing out to sea. (wiki)

When you get to the beach…

  • Whenever possible, swim at a lifeguard-protected beach. Ask a lifeguard about the conditions before entering the water.
  • Obey all instructions/orders from lifeguards and posted signs. They are there for your wellbeing.
  • Never swim alone.
  • Stay at least 100 feet (30 meters) away from piers and jetties. Permanent rip currents often exist alongside these structures.

If caught in a rip current…know your options

  • Relax, rip currents don’t pull you under.
  • Don’t swim against the current.
  • You may be able to escape by swimming out of the current in a direction following the shoreline, or toward breaking waves, then at an angle toward the beach.
  • You may be able to escape by floating or treading water if the current circulates back toward shore.
  • If you feel you will be unable to reach shore, draw attention to yourself. If you need help, yell and wave for assistance.

If you see someone in trouble…

Don’t become a victim while trying to help someone else! Many people have died trying to rescue rip current victims.

  • Get help from a lifeguard.
  • If a lifeguard is not present, call 9-1-1,
  • then try to direct the victim to swim following the shoreline to escape.
  • If possible, throw the rip current victim something that floats.
  • Never enter the water without a flotation device.

www.ripcurrents.noaa.gov.

September 3, 2023

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