Watch for Rip Currents
Rip currents could be present whenever you go to the beach. This is especially true if there are storms
nearby. Sometimes reffered to as rip tides, these sudden rushes of water can cause you problems if you
are caught in one. However, there are ways to beat this and have an enjoyable beach visit. Let's start
with the picture below. As you can see, the daily wave action causes sand bars to be developed as the
waves roll off the shore. This happens because sand is pulled back into the surf from the beach.
Initiated by the strong winds pushing water towards the shore, rip currents occur when the water that is
returning back out to sea, or away from the shore, finds a gap in the sandbar. This gap will be the path
of least resistance, so the water travels this gap on its way back to its origin. In this next picture,
you can see the gap created in the bar by the surf. Between the bar and the shore is a lot of water wanting
to return to its source. It will all funnel through the gap causing a very strong current.
Remember, as a rule of thumb, when you have high fast moving waves breaking on shore the water will move
back away from shore with the same force. This can cause some strong current flows that can break through
the sandbar and open a gap. These sandbars may be any distance from shore making them hard to spot. On
your initial arrival at the beach, you might ask the lifeguards of any sandbars they know of and their
suggestions of a safe place to swim.
If you are caught in a rip current, you can escape and return safely to shore. Rips are stronger than you
so don't fight it. Instead of going against the current, turn your motion parallel to the beach. This way
you will soon be out of the current, then you can return to shore. If you need help to get back to shore,
yell or wave your arms for help. And once again: It is absolutely critical to always remember to stay calm!
In summary, if caught in a rip current, follow the three steps explained above: 1. Let the current initially pull you out. 2. When you feel you can, swim out of the current, parallel to the shore. 3. Swim back to shore, or call or wave your arms for help. So make your trip to Pensacola Beach a safe one and practice beach safety.
Return to Beach Page fron Rip Currents Page
|
