PSA: What are Rip Currents?

 

As the summer season kicks in, it’s important to catch up on your beach safety. One of the most important things is looking out Rip Currents! On the beaches in 30A  there is a warning flag system that tells you the daily conditions of the water. So, before you go rushing in to make a splash, make sure you check the flag to know the daily water conditions. Here is what each flag means:

• Double Red – Water Closed to Public Use

• Red – High Hazard (rough conditions, such as strong surf and or currents)

• Yellow – Medium hazard (light surf and or currents)

• Green – Low Hazard (calm conditions)

• Purple – Marine Pest (jellyfish, stingrays & dangerous fish)

 

What Is A Rip Current?

• A rip current is something that can occur near beaches with breaking waves. It’s a strong narrow current of water that moves directly away from the shore, cutting through the lines of breaking waves. It’s at is strongest and fastest near the water’s surface.

 

More Identifiable Characteristics:

• Deep Section of water that’s choppy/foamy

• Gap in breaking waves

• The water color may be darker

 

Oh No! You’ve Been Caught In A Rip Current, What Do You Do?

• Remember to stay calm! Though that’s easier said than done, it’s important. Do not swim against the rip, it will only tire you. Make sure you swim parallel to shore, where the deep water is pulling you. Once you get there, use the waves to push you back into the shore. Here is visual down below: 

 

 

 

Stay safe out there, and always make sure to check you beach conditions for the day!