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 RIP CURRENTS: STAYING SAFE IN THE OCEAN





Rip currents—sometimes called riptides—are one of the scariest things you’ll find at the beach, and most people don’t even see them coming. But the truth is, if you know how to spot one and what to do if you get caught, you’re already miles ahead of most swimmers. Here’s what science—and lifeguards—want you to know before you dive in.

How to Dodge a Rip Current

First rule: swim where the lifeguards are. Those flagged areas on the sand? They’re not just for decoration. Lifeguards check them for hidden dangers, and they’re ready if something goes sideways (Bradstreet & Brander, 2014).

Next, keep your eyes peeled for trouble. Rip currents don’t come with a big warning sign, but you can spot the clues: look for water that’s a darker shade than the rest, places where waves seem to skip breaking altogether, or a sneaky river of water heading back out to sea. If the water looks odd compared to its surroundings, you might be looking at a rip (Leatherman, 2012).

A lot of drownings happen because people either miss the warning signs or don’t realize how strong these currents are. That’s why those beach safety signs actually matter—take a second to check them out (Woods et al., 2022).

What to Do If You Get Swept Up

Let’s say you feel yourself getting pulled away from shore. The worst thing you can do is panic. Rip currents are fast, sure, but they’re not whirlpools—they won’t pull you under forever (Miloshis & Stephenson, 2011).

Instead, try to float or tread water. Most people who drown in rips do so because they panic, burn out, and can’t keep their heads above water anymore (Bradstreet & Brander, 2014).

If you’ve got the energy, swim parallel to the beach—sideways, not straight against the current. Fighting straight back rarely works; it just exhausts you (McCarroll et al., 2014).

If that’s not possible—maybe you’re tired, or the waves are rough—float and wave for help. Stick an arm up and try to catch someone’s attention (Brander et al., 2011).

If you’re not a strong swimmer, don’t waste your energy trying to break free. Focus on staying afloat and signaling for help. That’s your best shot (Drozdzewski et al., 2015).

The Big Stuff to Remember

  • Always swim between the flags, where lifeguards are watching.

  • Learn what a rip current looks like before you get wet.

  • If you’re caught, don’t panic—float, conserve your energy, and swim sideways if you can.

  • If you can’t escape, keep floating and signal for help.

  • More knowledge, fewer accidents.

All this advice comes straight from the research—real studies, not just old wives’ tales (Bradstreet & Brander, 2014; Miloshis & Stephenson, 2011; McCarroll et al., 2014). 

Pro Tip: Swim with a partner or group whenever possible for safety.

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