When you are at the beach and going into the water you should always check with a lifeguard to find the safest spot in the water for you. Rip currents are very dangerous and should be avoided when you are at the beach. A rip current is basically water moving quickly from the shore back out to sea.

Rip currents are murky, choppy, and sandy parts of water. There may be whitewater, foam, or even seaweed moving in a column out to sea.

If you get caught moving out to sea in a rip current: do not panic, swim sideways (parallel) to shore. Do not try and swim straight into shore against the current. You will be able to float and if you have a boogie board or surfboard stay on top.

Wave and shout for help if able and a lifeguard will come help you.

If you find yourself near a distressed swimmer (from a rip current or otherwise) passing them flotation like a boogie board or surfboard is helpful.

Never try to help someone else in distress yourself. The chances of making yourself another victim are high.