Rip currents are very strong currents running out to sea, that can easily drag swimmners from shallow waters into water beyound their depth without warning. Rips are especially strong in large surf/waves around the mouth of rivers meeting a beach and structures such as piers or jettys in the water.

A rip current can be spotted from the shore in several ways:

Discoloured brown water caused by the sand being stirred up from the seabed
Foam on the water of the surface
Debris floating on the surface out to sea
Rippled patch of sea that looks different to the rest of the area.


If you are ever caught in a rip relax never panic!
Raise an arm to attract attention, Shout for help if others are nearby ask them to contact the lifeguard or coastguard!
If you are able too you could try swimming to either the left or right to get out of the rip never try swimming towards the shore while in a rip its likely you will burn up your energy very quickly attempting to reach the shore which would be dangerous.
If you feel you can not swim attempt to float on your back.
When a lifeguard reaches you listen to them, otherwise you may also put them in danger.

You may also want to read the beach safety guide that has been produced by the Dorset guide