 Understanding the ocean is very important— the more you know about how waves, wind and tides affect conditions in the water, the better able you are to keep yourself safe, or even warn others away from danger. Recognizing danger signs and awareness of surf conditions is an essential way to keep yourself, family, and friends safe.
A rip is a strong current running out to sea or parallel to the beach. Rip currents are the cause of most rescues performed at beaches. A rip current usually occurs when a channel forms between the shore and sandbar, and waves have built up water which then returns to sea, causing a drag effect. The larger the surf, the stronger the rip. Rip currents are dangerous, as they can carry a weak or tired swimmer into deep water.
Rip currents cannot always be differentiated nor distinguished from the surrounding water. Often a rip current gives no visible warning of its existence, however, certain indications may indicate rip current conditions. The conditions which may indicate a rip current are:
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A channel of fast moving, churning, choppy water.
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A difference in water color.
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Any objects in water moving out to sea.
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A break in the incoming wave pattern.
These conditions are not always present.
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Do not become another victim.
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Get help from a lifeguard.
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If no lifeguards are present, look for surfboard riders or other people with ocean experience.
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Tell the victim to float and do not panic—assistance will be on the way.
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Yell instructions to the victim on how to escape.
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If possible throw a floatation device to the victim.
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Call 9-1-1 for assistance.
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Stay Calm.
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Float to regain energy, do not fight the current.
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Escape the current by swimming across the direction of water flow. Once free from the rip, adjust your direction and swim back to shore.
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If you are unable to escape by swimming, float or tread water.
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If you are unable to reach the shore, face the shore and waive your arm above your head, yell for “HELP” to draw attention to yourself.
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When you regain energy or the current weakens, swim across the direction of water flow. Once free from the rip adjust your direction and swim towards shore.
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Do not panic, the rip current will dissipate in deeper water.
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