Going to the beach can be a wonderful experience, full of sunshine, sand, and the gentle sound of waves. However, it’s important to be aware of certain dangers that may not be immediately obvious. One such danger is the presence of rip currents, which can appear without warning along the coast. These currents are often marked by a lack of waves and a darker color to the water, indicating a deeper area.

Rip currents can be very dangerous. If you accidentally step into one, the current can quickly sweep you out to sea, even faster than an Olympic swimmer could potentially swim back. In fact, rip currents are responsible for 80% of sea drownings. It’s crucial to recognize these spots and keep a safe distance.

Should you ever find yourself caught in a rip current, the best course of action is to remain calm. Instead of trying to swim directly back to shore, which can be exhausting and futile, swim parallel to the shore. This will help you escape the narrow, fast-moving current.

Making sure your family and friends are aware of this information can help keep everyone safe during beach outings. Sharing this knowledge could save lives.