Dr. Tim Scott is an Associate Professor in Ocean Exploration and has been actively contributing to internationally recognised research in fields of beach and submarine geomorphology, rip current dynamics and coastal hazards. On his site he gives a good insight into rip currents, where they can be found, what different kind of rip currents there exist, and most important what to do if you are caught in a rip current. The RNLI advices:

• Do not try to swim against it or you’ll get exhausted.
• If you can stand, wade don’t swim.
• If you can, swim parallel to the shore until free of the rip and then head for shore.
• Always raise your hand and shout for help.

To this rather theoretical approach of rip currents, we add this site from Beachsafe Australia where you can watch an interesting video demonstrating different types of rip currents. Also find there a practical survival guide and listen to stories of survivors of rip currents.

As risk assessment is missing at most beaches around the world, which makes tourists extra vulnerable due to unawareness of the risks, let this reading about rip currents be a motivation to swim only at patrolled beaches and between the red and yellow flags where lifesavers can see you and help if you get into trouble.