Don’t panic, if caught in a rip current, says NSRI
Awareness and observation are key to staying safe.
The National Sea Rescue Institute reminds the public that although beaches are the best places to visit in the summer, they can also be dangerous.
One of the ocean’s most dangerous forces can form right where a person may want to swim – these are rip currents.
Rip currents are powerful channels of water that flow away from the beach, and they are responsible for many drownings along the coastline.
“It’s easiest to think of a rip current as a river of water that flows away from the beach out to the backline,” said NSRI spokesperson Andrew Ingram.
“It forms because, as waves come in, the water has to find a way back out to sea.”
“The shape and structure of the seabed often directs this outward flow, creating a narrow, fast-moving stream that can sweep swimmers out in seconds.”
Ingram mentioned that rip currents often go unnoticed because they can appear calm and inviting.
“Ironically, a rip often looks like the calmest spot on the beach. If you see a gap where there are no breaking waves and the water looks darker, that’s likely the rip current, where water is flowing out to sea.”
Awareness and observation are key to staying safe. Look for darker water with a bit of foam on top, and if you watch carefully, you’ll see it moving seaward.
He also explained that some beach and weather conditions make rips more likely.
“When waves are more than about half a metre high, rip currents are more likely. You can also get what’s called a ‘flash rip’, which can form suddenly, even when conditions seemed safe moments earlier. Again, this is why it’s safest to swim between lifeguard flags.”
Knowing how to respond can save your life. Should you ever be caught in a rip current, the NSRI urges you not to panic.
Instead, float on your back to stay calm and save energy. Then try to swim out of the current by going sideways – at 90 degrees to the flow. If you cannot escape, stay afloat, wave for help, and wait for rescuers.
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