Do you know that more than 100 people die annually due to rip currents on our nation’s beaches and rip currents account for more than 80 percent of rescues performed by surf beach lifeguards?
Recently on Pensacola Beach, more than 100 swimmers were rescued or assisted by lifeguards. None of the swimmers required serious medical attention, however one person nearly drown due to the severity of the current.
When visiting a beach and enjoying the water, it is important to be knowledgeable of the posted beach warning flags indicating the water conditions that day (see graphic).
Important Tips to Remember:
- Never swim alone: Knowing the water and what to expect before you go swimming may save your life. You may be an expert in a swimming pool, yet find yourself drowning in the surf when confronted with rip currents, sand bars and deep holes.
- If you are caught by a rip current, do not try to swim straight for the shore. The strong current can exhaust and defeat even the best swimmer.
- Stay calm and remember that the current is narrow and dies out beyond the breakers.
- If the current is weak, swim parallel to the shore until you are out of the current, then swim ashore. If the current is strong, float with it until it dies out, then swim toward the shore.
- Please note: Strong rip currents form near groins, jetties and piers, and they cut deep holes in the bottom. Stay at least 100 feet from these areas.
For more information, visit BeReadyEscambia.com and follow @BeReadyEscambia on Twitter.
