I’m trying to learn as much as I can about the ocean and seas in general—anything that is important for our safety. For example, did you know what a purple flag means at the beach? Well, neither did I, but it turns out it’s quite important. And then again, my friend was at the beach, and she told me she saw a really weird thing. She noticed that in one spot in the water, there were no waves. Just in that one spot. When she told me about it, of course, I freaked out. It was something I had no idea about, so I decided to learn more about it.
Apparently, this phenomenon is called a rip current. Rip currents are powerful, narrow channels of fast-moving water that are prevalent along coasts all around the world. They can form at any beach with breaking waves and can quickly pull swimmers out to sea. Understanding when and how rip currents occur is vital for anyone who frequents the beach. They usually form when waves break near the shoreline. The water piles up between the breaking waves and the beach. This water needs to find a way back to the ocean. It can concentrate in narrow channels through the surf zone.
What’s truly deceptive about rip currents is how calm they appear. A patch of still water between more turbulent waves can look like a safe haven but is often the opposite. Recognizing a rip current is the first step in avoiding them. Look for areas where waves aren’t breaking directly. Check where foam or debris seems to be moving steadily seaward. Also, observe where a different color in the ocean appears amid surrounding waves.
If you ever find yourself caught in a rip current, one of the best things you can do is not fight it. Swimming straight back to shore against a rip current can be tiring. It can also be deadly, even for the strongest of swimmers. Instead, the best thing to do is to swim parallel to the shore to get out of the narrow channel of water that is moving. Once you feel yourself not feeling the pull of the current, you can swim back to shore at an angle that is away from the current.
Rip currents are more common than you might think. In the United States, for instance, lifeguards rescue tens of thousands of people from rip currents each year. They’re particularly prevalent at beaches with stronger and more frequent waves, such as those on the East and West Coasts of the U.S. However, no coastline with breaking waves is immune.
Safety should always be your first priority. Pay attention to beach flags and signs—these are not mere decorations. A red flag means high hazard. Yes, a purple flag warns of dangerous marine life. Knowing what each color signifies can be a lifesaver. Always swim at beaches with lifeguards. Don’t overestimate your swimming abilities, especially in unfamiliar waters.
As far as I go, I know that recognizing the ocean for all its might and educating myself on the risks allows me to enjoy its beauty more safely. I might always be terrified of the water. But at least knowing about rip currents gives me ways to manage my fear. I hope by sharing this gives you and information you can use whether you’re a seasoned swimmer or just dipping your toes in. I know I would certainly be dipping my toes in the water. Or enjoying just watching the ocean from a yet far and very safe distance.