Lifeguards share tips to keep you safe during Rip Current Awareness Week

CAROLINA BEACH, NC (WWAY) — This week is Rip Current Awareness Week, and as the weather gets warmer, more and more people are heading to the beach. But it’s important to keep safety in mind while you are out having fun in the sun.

“It’s actually very difficult to spot a rip current. Rip currents are dangerous for the fact that they look like safe areas to swim,” said Carolina Beach head lifeguard Mike Mulleavey.

Mulleavey said that rip currents are channels that are formed by a break in the sandbar.

So what can you do to stay safe when you’re swimming at sea?

“We ask that you know your limits. That’s the biggest thing. Most people that get in trouble are people that try to do too much. Try and go beyond their limits. So know your limits. Swim with a buddy. Swim with a buddy that has the same kind of limits as you do,” said Mulleavey.

He also cautions to stay aware and alert of your surroundings.

“Make sure you know where you are in the water. Find something on shore as a point that you can look at and know so whenever you look back at shore you have that reference point, and know if you’re going out too far or if you’re moving down the beach,” said Mulleavey.

He said that if you do find yourself in a dangerous situation, it is important to remain calm and not to panic.

Ocean Rescue said that it is important to check in with lifeguards throughout the day as ocean conditions can change.

They say the most common time for rip currents to occur is typically 2 hours before and after low tide. But it is possible for one to pop up anywhere at anytime.