We kick off Gulf Coast Rip Currents and Beach Hazard Awareness Week with the basics about rip currents. What is a Rip Current? Why is it a beach hazard?
🌊A Rip Current is a strong, narrow current of water flowing away from shore. #RipCurrents commonly form around breaks in sandbars & near jetties or piers. It’s a natural treadmill travelling up to 8 feet per second – faster than an Olympic swimmer.
🌊Rip currents can be deadly – even for the most advanced swimmers. Know what #RipCurrents are & how to escape BEFORE you enter the Gulf. This could save your life or the life of someone else.
👉Survival Tips: STAY CALM, WAVE, YELL, FLOAT.
🌴Be #BeachSmart www.weather.gov/safety/ripcurrent-surviving