How to Swim Out of a Rip Current

Before entering the ocean, you should always know your swimming ability and the ocean conditions. No matter how prepared you are, though, a rip current can open up to pull you away from the shore. Getting yourself out of the thrall is a relatively simple procedure.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Remain calm. Rip currents are more likely to pull you out, not under. The main reason people go under is because they lose their composure, and start to sink. Stay calm and you’ll stay afloat.

2. Don’t fight it. Let the current take you in the direction it’s going, but keep your eye on the shore so you don’t become disoriented.

3. The rip will soon stop and you can begin your swim to shore.

4. When you swim to shore, take a diagonal approach away from the direction that the current pushed you. So if the current pushed you southeast (assuming you’re on the Atlantic coast), swim in a southwest direction back to the beach. This will prevent you from putting yourself back into the rip on your way in.

Tips & Warnings

• Never swim alone.
• Swim near a lifeguard.