Beware of riptides while swimming
While engaging in swimming, snorkeling, kitesurfing, wakeboarding, sailing, diving, it is essential to understand the dangers of the sea.
If you don’t know how to swim, or feel unsafe in the water, there are many things you can do to become a better swimmer. Take swimming lessons with certified teachers. Learn how to float, move and gain confidence in the water.
Riptides are naturally occurring phenomena that allow the water to find its way back to the sea; creating a strong current that pulls things out from the shore. It is necessary to understand what a riptide current is, and how the water in a riptide current can pull you away from the shore, and to know what to do in this situation. Remember not to worry. It is crucial not to panic, and instead of swimming directly back to the shore — swim sideways, parallel to the beach. Once you’re out of the strong water, you can swim back to the shore safely. If you need help, just raise your hand and call for a lifeguard or an adult nearby. They’re there to keep you safe! If you are struggling in the water, try to stay calm: take a big breath and don’t panic. Float on Your Back to help you rest and keep your face out of the water. Wave your arms and call out for help if possible, and finally, if you have a floater or a boogie board, hold onto it. It will help you stay afloat while you wait for help. You can recognise if someone is in trouble in the water in several ways, from quietness, to bobbing up and down in the water, with their head back and mouth close to the water. Wide eyes can also be a good tell; try to recognise if the person’s eyes look afraid, if their hair is over their face, or if it looks like they might be struggling to breathe.