A rip current pulls you away from the sand, not under. Knowing what to do matters more than being a strong swimmer.
- A gap in the line of breaking waves
- Water that looks darker, deeper or calmer than either side
- Foam, seaweed or sand moving steadily out to sea
- A rippled patch in otherwise smooth water
The single most effective thing you can do is swim on a patrolled beach, between the flags, where a lifeguard can see you.
