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Day 24 – Rip Currents: Know the Signs

What moves fast, hides in plain sight, and is one of the deadliest natural hazards on Australian beaches?
πŸ‘‰ A rip current.

Rip currents are powerful channels of water flowing away from shore. They cause over one third of all coastal drownings in Australia β€” and they’re often hard to spot.

Bernie from Surf Life Saving SA explains what to look for -

Signs of a rip current:

  • Deeper, darker water

  • Fewer or no breaking waves

  • Sandy water stretching out to sea

  • Foam, debris, or seaweed moving away from shore

  • A calm-looking patch with strong movement beneath

If you’re caught in a rip:

  • Stay calm β€” don’t panic

  • Raise your hand and call for help

  • Float with the current; it may take you to safety

  • Swim parallel to the beach or towards breaking waves

It’s not about strength β€” it’s about knowing what to do.

πŸ‘‰ Get Ready: Scan before you swim.

Learn more with Surf Life Saving SA.

#30Days30WaysAUS #GetReady #BeachSafety #RipCurrent #SurfLifeSavingSA

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23 September

Day 23 – International Sign Language Day: Learn Auslan for Emergencies