How to protect yourself against rip currents

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3 p.m., June 6, 2005

If you are caught in a rip current:

Stay calm--don’t fight the current.
Escape the current by swimming in a direction following the shoreline. When free of the current, swim at an angle--away from the current--toward shore.
If you are unable to escape by swimming, float or tread water. When the current weakens, swim at an angle away from the current toward shore.
If at any time you feel you will be unable to reach shore, draw attention to yourself: Face the shore, call or wave for help.

How do I help someone else?

Don’t become a victim while trying to help someone else! Many people have died in efforts to rescue rip current victims. Get help from a lifeguard.
If a lifeguard is not present, yell instructions on how to escape.
If possible, throw the rip current victim something that floats.
Call 9-1-1 for further assistance.

Before leaving for the beach:

Check the latest surf zone forecast on NOAA Weather Radio or online. During beach seasons, a number of National Weather Service offices issue a rip current outlook.

When you arrive at the beach:

Speak with on-duty lifeguards about rip currents as well as other surf conditions expected for the day.

General safety tips:

Know how to swim.
For maximum safety, swim near a lifeguard. Obey all instructions and orders from lifeguards.
Be cautious at all times.
If in doubt, don’t go out!
Never swim alone.

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