Learn how to escape a rip current
Our Rip Current documentaries all strive to give audiences the best science-based information about how to survive a rip current encounter.
Despite rip currents being unique to different beaches, there is a global acceptance about what you should do to survive a rip current if you find yourself caught in one.
The best response is to relax, float and signal for help
Dr Rob Brander explains what to do
when caught in a rip current
In Rip Current Heroes we presented the following rip current escape information.
Only swim on beaches patrolled by Lifeguards and Lifesavers.
If you find yourself caught in a rip current remember, the golden rule is not to panic. Rips will not pull you under the water, they are really just taking you for a ride instead. Focus first on floating and raise your hand for help from lifeguards, or even surfers. Don't be afraid to call out for help as well.
Don’t attempt to swim against the rip current
Never attempt to swim directly back to shore, against the flow of the current. They’re simply too powerful and you’ll quickly become exhausted, which can lead to panic.
Circulating rip current
A circulating rip current should eventually float you back around to either a sand bank or put you close to breaking waves which will help you get back to shore.
Rip flow beyond the waves
A current that flows directly offshore will normally float you just beyond the breaking waves where the rip will slowly dissipate.
At this point you can either continue to float and wait for rescue or you can slowly swim along the beach until you are out of the ripand then make your way back to shallower water where you can stand, and then back the shore.
Swimming parallel
The other option you have – and this applies only to good swimmers – is to try swimming to the side of the rip current in either direction as you float with the rip current. In some situations this may free you from the rip. Not all rips flow straight out from the beach, so it’s important to aim for areas of whitewater where waves are breaking and you may be able to stand up.
