(WdNews)- As Spring Break season gets underway, beach safety officials are reminding residents planning coastal trips that dangerous rip currents can form even when waves appear small.
The warning comes as families and college students prepare to travel to Gulf Coast and Florida beaches in the coming weeks. According to the National Weather Service, rip currents are powerful channels of water that flow away from shore and can quickly pull swimmers into deeper water.
Officials stress that waves do not need to be large or severe for rip currents to develop.
How to survive a rip current:
Stay calm. Panic can lead to exhaustion and increase the risk of drowning.
Wave and yell to get the attention of a lifeguard.
Float on your back if you are not a strong swimmer.
Swim parallel to shore if you are a strong swimmer, moving sideways until you are free from the current’s pull before heading back to the beach.
“Staying calm may save your life,” safety officials emphasize.
Beachgoers are encouraged to swim near lifeguards when possible, check local beach forecasts before entering the water and never swim alone.
Additional rip current safety information is available through the National Weather Service at weather.gov.
Authorities urge travelers to be #BeachSmart and make safety a priority while enjoying Spring Break vacations.
