California Today

ALT Rip Currents: Know Your Options. Rip currents are powerful currents of water moving away from shore. They can sweep even the strongest swimmer away from shore. If at all possible, swim near a lifeguard. If caught in a rip current: 1) Relax, rip currents don't pull you under. 2) Don't swim against the current. 3) Swim out of the current, then to shore. 4) If you can't escape, float or tread water. 5) If you need help, yell or wave for assistance. The image shows a rip current as a narrow flow of water moving in a line directly away from the beach, with waves on either side moving in the opposite direction towards the beach. Arrows point away from either side of the current and into the waves, parallel to the beach, indicating the path of escape from the rip current.

ALT Ocean waves are shown breaking offshore with text: Don't Put Yourself at Risk: How to help someone caught in a rip current. Carefully assess the situation. Is the person unable to return to shore? Get help from a lifeguard. If there is no lifeguard, call 9-1-1. Advise the person to swim following the shoreline to escape the current. If possible, throw the person something that floats. Never enter the water without a floatation device. Many people have died trying to rescue someone caught in a rip current.

ALT Sneaker waves are potentially deadly waves that suddenly surge much farther up the beach than expected, overtaking the unaware. Dangers from sneaker waves include being swept into the ocean, rolling logs and heavy debris that can knock over or pin down unsuspecting beachgoers, and potentially deadly cold water immersion. Never turn your back to the ocean! Know the local weather, surf, and tide forecast, and watch the waves from higher ground for 20 minutes before moving closer, continuing to watch until you leave.