Ride The Rip
Let’s talk about something that doesn’t get enough attention but absolutely should: rip currents. They sound harmless, like a beachy yoga move, but don’t be fooled. These narrow, fast-moving channels of water can catch even strong swimmers off guard and pull them away from shore in seconds.
We’ve all seen the signs. Some of us have ignored them. But behind every warning is a very real risk. Families in Florida and beyond have lost loved ones to rip currents, and it often happens on days when the ocean looks calm and inviting.
🌪️ What Exactly Is a Rip Current?
It’s not a wave or a storm surge. It’s a powerful stream of water that moves from the shoreline out to sea. It forms when waves break unevenly along the coast and the water trapped near the beach funnels out through a low point in the sandbar. It’s quick, quiet, and it doesn’t care how many laps you did in the pool last week.
🏊 What to Do If You’re Caught in One
This is the part where instinct can actually work against you. If you try to swim directly back to shore, you’re basically entering a one-sided swimming contest with a freight train.
Instead:
-
Stay calm. Yes, easier said than done, but panic burns energy you need.
-
Float or tread water. This keeps you from getting too tired while you assess.
-
Swim parallel to the shore. Get out of the current first, then head in.
-
Wave and yell. Don’t be shy. Lifeguards are trained for this. Give them something to spot.
🚩 Know Before You Go
-
Swim at beaches with lifeguards. They’re not there just to twirl whistles.
-
Check local beach flags and forecasts before getting in.
-
Avoid swimming near piers, jetties, or sandbars. Rip currents love to hang out there.
-
If it looks too calm to be dangerous, that’s actually when you should be most alert.
Rip currents are responsible for most beach rescues and far too many drownings each year. The ocean isn’t out to get you, but it doesn’t give warnings the way we wish it would. And while we can joke about Mother Nature having a mood, this is one area where a little knowledge can literally save a life.