As we enter the high season for tropical activity, it is important to recognize that even when a storm is not directly impacting our area, we are still effected.
Storms cause riptides that are dangerous even for the best of swimmers. We have seen several tragic stories in the news of individuals who have been caught in a riptide and not survived.
According to NOAA, Moving at speeds of up to eight feet per second, rip currents can move faster than an Olympic swimmer. Panicked swimmers often try to counter a rip current by swimming straight back to shore—putting themselves at risk of drowning because of fatigue. If caught in a rip current, don’t fight it! Swim parallel to the shore and swim back to land at an angle.
Signs that a rip current is present can be very subtle and difficult to identify, especially when the ocean is very rough. However, at times they can be spotted, especially from higher vantage points than the water’s edge. Some clues include:
A consistent area of foam or seaweed being carried through the surf.
You may be able to observe the water flowing away from the beach with the stronger rip currents. If you are ever in doubt, ask a lifeguard at a guarded beach and they will let you know if they have observed any rip currents. Always pay attention to the flags, a yellow, red or double read are indications that hazards are present.
A narrow gap of darker, seemingly calmer water flanked by areas of breaking waves and whitewater.
A channel of churning/choppy water that is distinct from surrounding water
A difference in water color, such as an area of muddy-appearing water (which occurs from sediment and sand being carried away from the beach).
Thanks to Sherrie, we will always remember safe boating is no accident.
If you would like to learn more about vessel safety checks, please contact Steve Hults, Staff Officer for Vessel Examinations at steve.hults@uscgaux.net.
Please contact us for more information about our safe boating classes or learning more about getting involved in the Auxiliary, check out our website at www.uscgaux.net follow us on FaceBook @ Apalachee Bay Flotilla 12 or contact our Flotilla Commander Phil Hill at pnkkhill2000@yahoo.com.
The Coast Guard Auxiliary is the uniformed civilian volunteer component of the U.S. Coast Guard and supports the Coast Guard in nearly all mission areas. The Auxiliary was created by Congress in 1939. For more information, please visit www.cgaux.org.
