Rip tides, also known as rip currents, are powerful channels of water that flow from the shore out to the open ocean. They are responsible for many ocean rescues and unfortunate accidents every year. Even in this gem of Hermosa and Manhattan Beach, there are rip tides. Understanding how to identify, avoid, and escape a rip tide is crucial for your safety at the beach. This guide provides clear, actionable steps and tips to ensure you know exactly what to do if you find yourself caught in a rip tide.
It didn’t happen to me personally, but a close friend of mine witnessed her sister and her cousin get swept out and caught in a rip next to the Hermosa Pier. Luckily, they got out and despite their extreme athletic abilities, they still were close to another fate. It happens…so best to be prepared.
What Is a Rip Tide?
A rip tide is a strong, narrow current that moves directly away from the shore. It can pull even strong swimmers out to deeper waters quickly.
Contrary to popular belief, rip tides don’t pull people underwater; instead, they drag swimmers out to sea, which can lead to panic and exhaustion.
How to Identify a Rip Tide
Ocean safety includes looking at the water before entering and it’s critical to try to spot rip tides before getting stuck in one. Before entering the water, take a moment to observe the ocean. Signs of a rip tide include:
- Choppy or murky water: Rip tides often disrupt the smooth appearance of the ocean’s surface.
- You may notice areas where the water looks rougher, is connecting, or has a swirling motion compared to the surrounding water. This turbulence is caused by the strong flow of water moving out to sea.
- The sand at the shore may look different or be dug out more.
- Foam or debris moving away from shore: Rip currents tend to carry loose sand, seaweed, or floating debris out to deeper waters. If you observe a line of foam, seaweed, or debris streaming steadily away from the shore, it is a clear indicator of a rip tide’s direction.
- Gaps in the waves: Flat or calm sections between areas of breaking waves may signal the presence of a rip tide.
- These gaps occur because the rip current interrupts the incoming wave patterns, creating a deceptively calm appearance that can lure unsuspecting swimmers.
- Signs and Flags: The lifeguards may have put signs and flags out to indicate areas of no swimming and where there is a rip tide(s).
- Lifeguard Announcement: In Hermosa Beach the lifeguards look just like the Baywatch ones, with the bright orange floating devices and red bathing suits. They might actually ask you to get out of the water if they spot a rip tide. Listening to the lifeguards is important. Hermosa Beach and Manhattan Beach have some of the best lifeguards in the world, but you still need to be aware of rip tides and the danger of rips.
Steps to Swim Out of a Rip Tide
- Stay Calm
- The most important thing is not to panic. Conserve your energy and focus on staying afloat.
- Don’t Fight the Current
- Swimming directly against the current to reach the shore can lead to exhaustion. Instead, let the current carry you while you prepare to escape.
- Swim Parallel to the Shore
- Rip tides are usually narrow and don’t extend far along the shoreline. Swimming parallel to the beach (left or right) will help you get out of the current.
- Float or Tread Water If Necessary
- If you’re too tired to swim, float on your back or tread water. Rip tides eventually dissipate, and you can swim back to shore once you’re free of the current.
- Signal for Help
- If you’re unable to escape, wave your arms and call for assistance. Lifeguards are trained to handle rip tide rescues.
What to Do If Someone Else Is Caught in a Rip Tide
- Alert a Lifeguard: Immediately notify a lifeguard rather than attempting a rescue yourself.
- Throw, Don’t Go: If a lifeguard isn’t nearby, throw a flotation device or something that floats to the person in need. Avoid swimming out unless you are trained in water rescues.
How to Avoid Rip Tides
- Swim Near Lifeguards: Lifeguard-monitored beaches are safer, and rip tide warnings are often posted from Hermosa to Manhattan Beach. Listen to their warnings.
- Learn About Local Conditions: Check for signs or warnings about rip tides and consult lifeguards about the day’s ocean conditions.
- Avoid Swimming Alone: Always have a buddy or swim with others. Surfing with others is also a safe practice.
- Stay In Designated Areas: Swim within marked areas with safety flags.
Tips for Staying Safe in the Ocean
- Wear a Flotation Device: Especially if you’re not a strong swimmer.
- Educate Children: Teach kids about rip tides and what to do if they get caught.
- Stay Aware of Your Surroundings: Watch the water conditions and stay alert to changes in wave patterns.
- Understand Your Limits: If you’re not confident in the water, stay in shallow areas.
Questions About Rip Tides
How far can a rip tide pull you?
Rip tides can extend hundreds of feet out to sea but typically weaken beyond the breaking waves.
Can rip tides occur in calm water?
Yes, rip tides can occur even when the surface of the water appears calm.
Are rip tides the same as undertows?
No, rip tides flow away from the shore, while undertows are currents that pull down and back toward the ocean floor.
Rip tides can be intimidating, but with the right knowledge and techniques, you will be better educated to go into the ocean. Enjoy your time at Hermosa and Manhattan beach with confidence.
Stay safe, and happy swimming!
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