How to survive a rip current

Video

GARDEN ROUTE NEWS - There have been a few drownings in the Mossel Bay area recently, so the spotlight is on one of the main contributors to most of the drowning - rip currents.

Also, swimmers should not panic because it could lead to drowning.

The safety of swimmers is always a priority to every organisation involving the sea.

Tides are the rising and falling of water levels in the ocean. They are primarily caused by the moon's gravitational pull, and they change gradually and predictably every day.

Rip currents are caused by the shape of the shoreline itself, and they may be sudden and unexpected. Strong rip currents tend to lure people in because they create a false calm in the surf.

When present, these powerful "rivers of water" are a danger to all beach goers because they can easily pull objects, and people, out beyond the breakers.

Here are a few guidelines when a rip current get hold of you while you take that well deserved bathing in the sea.

Check your local forecast before going in the water.
When you get to the beach, ask a lifeguard about the conditions.
If you get caught in a rip current or side current the most important thing is to stay calm.
The second thing is don’t swim against the rip.
The best thing to do is lie on your back and float. This will allow you to conserve energy. While you’re floating, raise one arm and call out to seek help. If you’re a confident swimmer, try swimming parallel to the beach towards breaking waves, and out of the rip.
Swim only when a lifeguard is on duty.
Avoid swimming alone, and stick to guarded beaches.
If you do go swimming on an unguarded beach, avoid going in deeper than your waist. It's also best to bring a floatation device into the water with you.
Use caution even if the weather is nice. Rip currents can form at any time, but they’re more likely to develop at low tide.

Watch 3 videos below:
English:

Xhosa:

Zulu:

Don’t try to rescue someone caught in a rip current. Only a lifeguard or other trained emergency responder should attempt a rescue. If there is no lifeguard present, call emergency services and yell out instructions to the person caught in the current. Yell to them: “Stay calm! Don’t try to fight the current. Swim parallel to the shore to get out of it.”

Try to find an object that floats and, if possible, throw it to the person caught in the current.

Important telephone numbers
Save these numbers in the area where you are on holiday.