MOSSEL BAY NEWS - Here's what to look out for to avoid rip currents:

• Water through a surf zone that is a different colour to the surrounding water. 
• A change in the incoming pattern of waves (often the waves are not breaking in a rip channel). 
• Seaweed, sand 'clouds' or debris moving out to the backline where waves are forming through the surf zone. 
• Turbulent or choppy water in the surf zone in a channel- or river-like shape flowing away from the beach. 

The NSRI says a rip current will not pull you under the water; as long as you can float, you will be safe until you can escape the current by swimming to the side (out of it) and then back to the beach.

Be sure to maintain a slow and relaxed pace until you reach the shore or assistance arrives. If you are swimming at a beach where lifeguards are on duty, raise your arm and wave for help. 

If you see someone in a rip current, do not go in to help unless you are trained and have emergency flotation devices such as the NSRI Pink Rescue Buoy or a surf board.

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