Ocean safety
What is a rip current and what do I do if I get caught in one?
A rip is a river of water flowing out to sea. Do not fight it. Paddle sideways along the beach.
Rip currents form when water pushed onshore by waves funnels back out through a narrow channel. You spot them as calm, darker strips between breaking waves. If you get caught, do not paddle straight back to the beach, you will exhaust yourself. Paddle parallel to the shore, about 30 to 50 meters, until you feel the pull stop, then paddle in. On a board, sit up, breathe, and signal a lifeguard if you cannot swim out.