Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) officials remind residents and visitors to stay alert and use caution at the beach this week, as an elevated risk of rip currents is expected along the Florida Panhandle through the weekend. A moderate to high risk of rip currents is expected from Escambia to Franklin County through Sunday, July 28.
“Weather conditions may begin to improve this weekend, but beachgoers and boaters should still remember to use caution when enjoying the water,” said FDEM Deputy State Meteorologist Tiffany Hersey. “The high rip current risk is expected to continue through the weekend due to onshore winds combined with the recent disturbed weather pattern.”
A rip current is a narrow, powerful current of water that runs perpendicular to the beach, out into the ocean. Visitors and Floridians are reminded to visit www.ripcurrents.noaa.gov for updates on rip current warnings before heading to the beach and to observe beach warning flags. When a red flag is flying, beachgoers should remain alert.
When at the beach:
- Before you leave for the beach, check the latest National Weather Service forecast for local beach conditions. Many offices issue a surf zone forecast.
- Obey all instructions and orders from lifeguards. Lifeguards are trained to identify hazards.
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Know the meaning of and obey warnings represented by colored beach flags.
Different beaches may use different colors but a commonly used series include:- Double Red: beach is closed to the public
- Single Red: high hazard, e.g., strong surf or currents
- Yellow: medium hazard
- Green: calm conditions although caution is still necessary
- Purple: flown with either red or yellow: dangerous marine life
- Stay at least 100 feet away from piers and jetties. Permanent rip currents often exist alongside these structures.
- Pay especially close attention to children and persons who are elderly when at the beach. Even in shallow water, wave action can cause loss of footing.
- Be cautious. Always assume rip currents are present even if you don’t see them.
If caught in a rip current:
- DON’T PANIC. Remain calm to conserve energy and think clearly.
- NEVER swim against the rip. Stay afloat and signal for help.
- Swim out of the current in a direction following the shoreline. When out of the current, swim at an angle--away from the current--towards shore.
- If you are unable to swim out of the rip current, float or calmly tread water.
- Draw attention to yourself: face the shore, wave your arms, and yell for help.
If you see someone in trouble, don't become a victim too:
- Get help from a lifeguard or, if one is unavailable, have someone call 9-1-1.
- Throw the rip current victim something that floats--a lifejacket, a cooler, an inflatable ball.
- Yell instructions on how to escape.
Practice Safe Boating:
- Check forecasts well ahead of time.
- Be sure everyone aboard is wearing a life jacket.
- If caught in a thunderstorm, go below deck if possible, and stay away from masts or ungrounded metal objects.
- Have a VHF marine band radio on board.
- Know the limitations of your boat. If small craft advisories or gale warnings are issued, you should postpone travel.
For more information about emergency response in Florida, the 2013 Hurricane Season, and how you can to Get A Plan! visit FloridaDisaster.org. Follow FDEM on Twitter at @FLSERT, on Facebook at Facebook.com/FloridaSERT and Facebook.com/KidsGetAPlan.