BEWARE OF RIPTIDES WHEN SWIMMING IN THE OCEAN!

Don’t panic and try to conserve your energy.

Go with the flow

Let the riptide carry you out until the current weakens past the surf line, then swim back to shore in a different direction. You can also try swimming out of the current in the direction of the shoreline or breaking waves, then at an angle towards the beach.

Swim parallel to the shore

Most riptides are only 50–100 feet wide, so swimming parallel to the shore can help you quickly get out of the current’s path and move towards safer waters.

Signal for help

If possible, raise one arm as a distress signal. If you can, wave your arms above your head while keeping your head above water and shout “help”.

Get help

If you see someone trapped in a riptide, immediately get help from a lifeguard. If there isn’t a lifeguard nearby, call 911 and give instructions on how to escape.