Watch Out for Rip Currents at the Beaches

There will be just over a million visitors to our San Diego beaches over the fourth of July holiday weekend.

Mayor Jerry Sanders issued a statement reminding beachgoers that rip currents take lives every year.

What exactly is a rip current?
Rip currents are powerful currents of water moving away from the shore. They can sweep even the strongest swimmer out to sea.

Swimmers should follow these rules to avoid rip currents:
• Swim only in areas where lifeguards are present.
• Ask the lifeguards if you are unsure where it is safe to swim.

If caught in a rip current:
• Don’t fight the current.
• MOST IMPORTANT: Swim parallel to the shore until you are out of the current, then swim to shore.
• If you can’t escape, float or tread water.
• If you need help, call or wave for assistance.