WATCH: Rip Currents: How To Spot Them, How To Survive Them

The weather forecast is for a beautiful beach day. It’s also the kind of day that will make the water very inviting -- and, if you’re not careful, dangerous.

But before you slather on the sunscreen (and don’t forget it), check these tips from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration on how to spot a rip current and what to do if you get caught in one.

Knowing what they look like can help you avoid them.

Knowing what to do if you get caught may save your life.

BEFORE YOU GO INTO THE WATER:

• Check water conditions before going in by looking at the local beach forecast before you leave for the beach and talking to the lifeguard at the beach.
• Only swim at a beach with lifeguards. The chances of drowning at a beach with lifeguards are 1 in 18 million (U.S. Lifesaving Association).
• Don’t assume! Great weather for the beach does not always mean it’s safe to swim or even play in the shallows. Rip currents often form on calm, sunny days.
• Learn how to spot a rip current. The Break the Grip of the Rip free online training will help you learn how to spot a rip current.

HOW TO SPOT A RIP CURRENT

Rip currents are channelized currents of water flowing away from shore at surf beaches. Look at the photos with this article for some views of how they can look. Typically, they form at breaks in sandbars, and also near structures, such as jetties and piers, as well as cliffs that jut into the water. Rip currents are common and can be found on most surf beaches Take a few minutes to learn more or check out the Science of the Surf site.

HOW TO SURVIVE A RIP CURRENT

• Don’t fight the current. It’s a natural treadmill that travels an average speed of 1-2 feet per second, but has been measured as fast as 8 feet per second — faster than an Olympic swimmer.
• Relax and float to conserve energy. Staying calm may save your life.
• Do NOT try to swim directly into to shore. Swim parallel to the shoreline until you escape the current’s pull. When free from the pull of the current, swim at an angle away from the current toward shore.
• If you feel you can’t reach shore, relax, face the shore, and call or wave for help.
• Remember: Wave and yell...swim parallel

Rip currents aren’t the only deadly beach hazard. Learn more about dangerous waves and other hazards and why you should never to turn your back on the ocean.