In part two of our ‘Beach Basics’ summer guide, find out how to get yourself out of a rip current…
“Rips are strong currents running out to sea” says Laura Fennimore from the RNLI. “They are a problem particularly for surfers, swimmers and bodyboarders, as they can quickly and easily drag you out to sea, far beyond your depth.”
“They are especially powerful in large surf” she adds, “but are also found around river mouths, estuaries and man-made structures like piers and groynes. Discoloured sea water, foam on the surface, debris floating out to sea and rippled patches of sea, when the water around is generally calm, are all signs of a rip current.
So what to do if you find yourself caught in one?
“A common problem is that people panic when they get caught in a rip current and try to swim against it” says Laura. “Instead, they should remain calm, try not to panic and raise their arm in the air to signal for help. If they feel they can swim, they should swim parallel to the beach until free of the current, and then head for shore.”
Read more practical advice and tips on how to stay safe on the RNLI’s website, www.rnli.org.uk/beachsafety
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Hi and welcome. I'm a freelance travel and lifestyle copywriter and editor, with a passion for the great outdoors. This is my personal blog all about getting out in the fresh air and reconnecting with our green spaces and countryside.
