How to Escape a Rip Current in the Ocean

Swim parallel to the beach to escape a rip current, which can drag you out to sea.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Swimsuits
• Fins

1. Realize that you're in a rip current when the water around you is foamy and brownish and you're slowly getting pulled away from the beach (see "How to Recognize and Understand Rip Currents in the Ocean").
2. Look to the beach and determine which direction the current is flowing by comparing where you entered the water to where you are now.
3. Check both sides of you to determine which direction is closer to clean and unfoamy water.
4. Swim parallel to the shore in the same direction the current is flowing.
5. Swim toward the shore when you are out of the rip current.

Tips & Warnings

• Recognizing where rip currents are before you enter the water is always a good idea.
• Do not attempt to swim against the pull of the rip current.
• Do not panic. There is no such thing as an undertow. This is a common ocean myth. What pulls people under is panic clouding their judgment and exhausting their oxygen supply.
• Swimming in the ocean is an inherently dangerous activity that can result in serious injury or death. We recommend that you seek proper training and equipment before attempting this activity.