Be on the lookout for Rip Currents

The Delaware Beaches are famous for sun sand and surf! After being on lockdown for months we are sure that you are ready to hit the Beach! While most of us prefer to see some gentle waves lapping the coast there are plenty of days when the sea can be pretty angry. It is always best to hit the Delaware Beaches during lifeguard hours. Swimming on a guarded beach should be a main priority if you are not the best swimmer or are just not familiar with the strong currents associated with the Atlantic Ocean.

Riptides or rip currents are a common along the Delaware Beaches so you should be familiar with what they look like and more importantly how to get out of one. Rip Currents are powerful, channeled, currents of water moving away from shore. Rips occur when water from the breaking surf is channeled back out to sea. They normally look like a rushing river that is moving out to sea. Getting familiar with the Ocean and be able to spot a riptide should be a priority before stepping into the Ocean.

Once you are able to spot the rip you can plan your swim in an area that does not have the riptide. However they can move quickly so you still have to keep your guard up.

If you do become caught in a rip current the main thing is do not panic. You will feel the current swiftly take you out to sea. Do not try and swim straight in. The current can be moving as fast as 8 feet per second and you will not be able to make any headway towards the shore. This will only wear you out faster. The best course of action is to calmly keep your head above water, get your bearings and swim parallel to the shore. Once you get out into clear water where the rip is no longer taking you seaward, you can then begin to swim towards shore. If you become tired before reaching the shore simply float on the surface to regain some energy. When you feel rested up enough then continue to make your way towards shore. The main thing to remember is to remain calm. You will make it out of the ocean and be soaking up the rays of sun in no time.

We want everyone to have a safe and enjoyable summer here at the Delaware Beaches. A day at the beach can do wonders for the soul. Be aware of your surroundings, keep calm while swimming and be able to recognize when you are getting in over your head. Here’s to having a safe and healthy time here at the Delaware Beaches.