Even experienced swimmers can be caught off guard when swimming in the ocean. It’s dramatically different from swimming in a pool or lake, and visitors should use caution. One of the dangers of ocean swimming is getting caught in rip currents, powerful currents of water moving away from the shore. Even the strongest of swimmers can be swept out to sea very quickly.
If you are caught in a rip current:
- Don’t fight the current.
- Swim parallel to the shore out of the current, then back to land.
- If you can’t escape, float or tread water.
- If you need help, call or wave for assistance.
When swimming in the ocean:
- Don’t swim alone.
- Children and adults who can’t swim should stay close to shore and may want to wear a life jacket.
- For extra safety, swim in areas monitored by lifeguards. The beach areas that are part of the Charleston County Parks have lifeguards on duty in the summertime.
For even more information, check out NOAA’s list of seven beach dangers, including jellyfish, lightning and sunburn.
Source: National Weather Service