top of page
Screenshot 2023-06-13 180949.png
Writer's pictureThe Beagle

How to spot a rip current?

Rips are the number one hazard on Australian beaches. The best way to avoid a rip is to swim at a patrolled beach between the red and yellow flags. How to spot a rip current?

Rips are complex, can quickly change shape and location, and at times, are difficult to see. The things to look for are;

  • Deeper, dark-coloured water.

  • Fewer breaking waves.

  • A rippled surface surrounded by smooth waters.

  • Anything floating out to sea or foamy, discoloured, sandy, water flowing out beyond the waves.

Rips don’t always show all of these signs at once.

How to survive a rip current?

  • Relax – stay calm and float to conserve your energy.

  • Raise – raise your arm and attract attention from lifeguards or lifesavers.

  • Rescue – the lifeguards or lifesavers will be on their way to help you.

  • While floating, rip currents may flow in a circular pattern and return you to an adjacent sandbar

  • You may escape the rip current by swimming parallel to the beach, towards the breaking waves.

  • Reassess your situation. If what you’re doing isn’t working, try one of the other options until you’re rescued or return to shore.

NOTE: Comments were TRIALED - in the end it failed as humans will be humans and it turned into a pile of merde; only contributed to by just a handful who did little to add to the conversation of the issue at hand. Anyone who would like to contribute an opinion are encouraged to send in a Letter to the Editor where it might be considered for publication

buymeacoffee.png
bottom of page