On Sunday at 1:32 a.m. the National Weather Service issued a rip current statement in effect until 9 p.m.
"Rip currents can sweep even the best swimmers away from shore into deeper water," comments the NWS. "Swim near a lifeguard. If caught in a rip current, relax and float. Don't swim against the current. If able, swim in a direction following the shoreline. If unable to escape, face the shore and call or wave for help."
Caught in a rip: How to stay safe
Rip currents are channelized currents of water flowing away from shore at surf beaches. The speeds can vary from moment to moment and can quickly increase to become dangerous to anyone entering the surf. Rip currents can sweep even the strongest swimmer away from shore. Trying to swim against a rip current will only use up your energy; the energy you need to survive and escape the rip current. If you get caught in a rip current, try to stay calm and follow the below advice from the NWS:
Keep your cool - they won't drag you under:
Don't panic - rip currents won’t pull you underwater.
Don't swim against the current:
Don’t swim towards the beach against the rip current. Instead, swim parallel to the beach and out of the rip current.
Signal for help if necessary:
If you feel you can't reach shore, relax, face the shore, and call or wave for help.
Seek lifeguarded beaches for added safety:
If at all possible, only swim at beaches with lifeguards.
Never swim alone on unguarded beaches:
If you choose to swim on beaches without a lifeguard, never swim alone. Take a friend and have that person take a cell phone so that person can call 911 for help.
Rip currents are formidable natural forces, but knowing how to react can significantly increase your chances of safely navigating these challenging waters. Stay informed, stay vigilant, and prioritize safety when enjoying the surf.
Source: The National Weather Service
