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Know the signs of a rip current. Look for gaps in the waves, channels of choppy water, or a difference in water color.
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Don't panic if you get caught in a rip current. Stay calm, conserve your energy, and don't try to fight against the current.
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Swim parallel to the shore to escape the rip current. Rip currents are typically only a few meters wide and can be escaped by swimming parallel to the shore until you are out of the current, and then swim back to shore.
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Signal for help if needed. If you are unable to escape the current or become too tired to swim, signal for help by waving your arms and shouting for assistance.
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Never swim alone. Always swim with a buddy, and keep an eye on each other while in the water.
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Follow the advice of lifeguards. They are trained to identify rip currents and can provide guidance on where it is safe to swim.
If you're planning a trip to the beach, it's important to be aware of the potential dangers, especially rip currents. Rip currents are powerful, narrow channels of water that can pull swimmers out to sea. They are the leading surf hazard for beachgoers, causing an average of 100 deaths each year in the United States alone.
Galveston Island is no exception, and the Galveston Island Beach Patrol is dedicated to ensuring the safety of beachgoers. Here are some tips from the Beach Patrol on how to stay safe in the water:
Remember, prevention is the best defense against rip currents. Always check the local weather and beach conditions before heading to the beach, and never swim alone or after consuming alcohol.
For more information and updates on beach conditions, visit the Galveston Island Beach Patrol website at https://galvestonislandbeachpatrol.com/rip-currents/. Stay safe and have fun at the beach!