On Tuesday at 4:51 a.m. a rip current statement was released by the National Weather Service valid from noon until Thursday 2 a.m. The statement is for South Walton, Coastal Bay, Coastal Gulf and Coastal Franklin.
The NWS says, “Dangerous rip currents expected.”
“Rip currents can sweep even the best swimmers away from shore into deeper water,” says the NWS. “Swim near a lifeguard. If caught in a rip current, relax and float. Don’t swim against the current. If able, swim in a direction following the shoreline. If unable to escape, face the shore and call or wave for help.”
Navigating rip currents: Your survival manual
Rip currents, those swift-moving channels of water flowing away from the shore at surf beaches, can pose a serious threat to beachgoers. These currents vary in speed and can swiftly become perilous for anyone venturing into the surf. Even strong swimmers can find themselves overpowered by the force of a rip current. It’s essential to know how to respond if you’re caught in one. Here’s what you need to do, based on guidance from the NWS:
Keep your cool – they won’t drag you under:
Don’t panic – rip currents won’t pull you underwater.
Don’t swim against the current:
Don’t swim towards the beach against the rip current. Instead, swim parallel to the beach and out of the rip current.
Call for help if necessary:
If you feel you can’t reach shore, relax, face the shore, and call or wave for help.
Seek lifeguarded beaches for added safety:
Whenever feasible, choose beaches with lifeguards on duty. Their trained eyes and rapid response can be a lifesaver in water emergencies.
Never swim alone on unguarded beaches:
If you decide to swim at beaches without lifeguards, establish a cardinal rule: never go solo. Always bring a companion, and ensure they have a cell phone to call 911 if needed.
With these insights into rip currents and how to react, you can enhance your safety when enjoying the beach. Stay informed, stay vigilant, and prioritize your well-being while relishing the surf.
Source: The National Weather Service
