What moves fast, hides in plain sight, and is one of the deadliest natural hazards on Australian beaches?
π 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 theyβre 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 youβre caught in a rip:
Stay calm β donβt 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
Itβs not about strength β itβs about knowing what to do.
π Get Ready: Scan before you swim.
Learn more with Surf Life Saving SA.
#30Days30WaysAUS #GetReady #BeachSafety #RipCurrent #SurfLifeSavingSA