Rip currents are darker-looking channels of water flowing away from and perpendicular to the shoreline.  They normally form at breaks in sandbars, and also near structures such as piers and jetties.  Rip currents are common and can sweep away even the strongest swimmers.

HOW TO PREPARE FOR RIP CURRENTS
 

• Check your local beach forecast.

• Learn how to swim and do not swim alone.

• Only swim at beaches with lifeguards present.

• Know what to do if you feel like you are caught

in a rip current.

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WHAT TO DO IF CAUGHT IN A RIP CURRENT
 

• Do not panic.

• Do not try to swim directly toward the shore, 

against the rip current.

• Swim parallel to the shoreline until you feel that you have escaped the rip current's pull.

• Once you are free from the pull of the rip current, swim at an angle toward the shore.

• If you are unable to reach the shore, face the shoreline and wave for help.

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