A rip current statement was released by the National Weather Service on Thursday at 2:44 a.m. valid from 7 a.m. until Friday 5 a.m. The statement is for South Walton, Coastal Bay, Coastal Gulf and Coastal Franklin.
The NWS comments, “Dangerous rip currents expected.”
“Rip currents can sweep even the best swimmers away from shore into deeper water,” adds 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.”
Mastering rip currents: Your safety guide
Rip currents are channelized currents of water flowing away from shore at surf beaches. The speeds can vary from moment to moment and can quickly increase to become dangerous to anyone entering the surf. Rip currents can sweep even the strongest swimmer away from shore. Trying to swim against a rip current will only use up your energy; the energy you need to survive and escape the rip current. If you get caught in a rip current, try to stay calm and follow the below advice from the NWS:
Stay calm – they won’t drag you under:
Your first rule of thumb: Keep a clear head. Rip currents won’t pull you beneath the water’s surface. Panic is your enemy; it depletes precious energy needed for your survival.
Go with the flow, but not toward the beach:
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:
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 choose to swim on beaches without a lifeguard, never swim alone. Take a friend and have that person take a cell phone so that person can call 911 for help.
Rip currents are formidable natural forces, but knowing how to react can significantly increase your chances of safely navigating these challenging waters. Stay informed, stay vigilant, and prioritize safety when enjoying the surf.
Source: The National Weather Service
