WHAT IS A RIP CURRENT?

Rip currents are powerful, narrow channels of fast moving water that are prevalent along the East, Gulf, and West coasts of the U.S., as well as along the shores of the great lakes. Moving at speeds of up to eight feet per second, rip currents can move faster then an Olympic swimmer. Because the current is strong it would feel difficult for an adult to stay in the same place if standing in waist deep water of a rip current. Because these are hard to spot rip currents can surprise the most advanced swimmers and are the most dangerous fenomenon for swimmers.

HOW TO AVOID A RIP CURRENT ?

The best way to avoid this kind of current is by knowing how to recognise it in the first place. The most identifiable signs of the rip current are:

• 1. Deep dark coloured water is usually the sign of deep water of a rip current.


• 2. Fewer area of white breaking waves.


• 3. A rippled surface surrounded by smooth water.


• 4. Anything floating out to sea, or foamy, sandy water further out beyond the waves.


• 5. Rip currents are most prominent during ebb.

HOW TO GET OUT OF A RIP CURRENT ?

When cought in a rip current the most important thing is to not panic. Know that the current is not going to pull you under. It is not going to bring you very far into the deep waters. The best way to see it is that 'it is taking you for a ride'. Swim WITH the current and NOT against it, eventhough it feels counter-intuitive. As soon as the current is weaker start swimming parallel to the shore and signal for help if you can by waving and calling for help. Most drowning happen when one tries to swim against the current, back to the shore. This is a lost battle and will exhaust the swimmer.