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Safety

Diagram showing how to escape rip currents, advising not to fight them and to swim parallel to the shore, with additional safety tips.
Beach warning flags indicating double red (closed), red (high hazard), yellow (medium hazard), green (low hazard), and purple (marine pests).
Diagram showing how to escape rip currents, advising not to fight them and to swim parallel to the shore, with additional safety tips.
Beach warning flags indicating double red (closed), red (high hazard), yellow (medium hazard), green (low hazard), and purple (marine pests).
Diagram showing how to escape rip currents, advising not to fight them and to swim parallel to the shore, with additional safety tips.
Beach warning flags indicating double red (closed), red (high hazard), yellow (medium hazard), green (low hazard), and purple (marine pests).
Diagram showing how to escape rip currents, advising not to fight them and to swim parallel to the shore, with additional safety tips.
Beach warning flags indicating double red (closed), red (high hazard), yellow (medium hazard), green (low hazard), and purple (marine pests).

Rip Currents

Rip Currents may form in nearshore sandbar breaks.

Although rarely more than 30 yards wide, rip currents can extend 1,000 feet offshore and travel up to 3 mph.

Some are present a few hours; others are permanent.  Rip Currents are prevalent after storms.

What To Do?

  • Do Not Panic
  • Do Not Swim Against Current
  • Float Calmly until the current lessens
  • Swim parallel to shore until out of current
  • Shout and wave for assistance

Beach Tips

  • Never Swim Alone
  • Never Dive into Shallow Water
  • Never Leave Kids Alone in the Water
  • Keep Sand Holes Shallow
  • Always Use Sunscreen (SPR 30+)
  • Drink Lots of Water
  • When Lightning, Leave the Beach
  • Obey Flag System
  • Obey Beach Safety Advice
  • Do Not Rely on Artificial Floatation Devices for Safety

Laws of the Beach