What do you do if you're stuck in a rip current?

Float or tread water until you can swim out of the current. Your instincts may be to fight the current and swim directly back to shore. However, that’s the most dangerous thing you could do. Instead, focus on keeping your head above water until the current has weakened and you're able to swim through its boundary.

Most rip currents weaken about 50 to 100 yards (46 to 91 m) from shore. Once the current has begun to subside, you’ll have an easier time swimming out of it.

Even the strongest swimmers can’t fight a rip current. Trying to swim against it can lead to exhaustion and drowning.

Remain calm. If you get caught in a rip current, don't panic. You'll have a better shot at getting out of the situation if you stay calm. Keeping your cool can help you conserve energy and think clearly.

Tips for Staying Calm

Try to control your breathing. Keep your head above the water and take slow, deep breaths.

Think positive, calming thoughts. Tell yourself “Don’t panic. You can make it out of this rip current. Don’t fight it, conserve your energy, and look for breaking waves at the edge of the current.”

Remind yourself that a rip current does not drag you underwater. Rip currents only pull you away from the shore. Worrying that the current will pull you underwater could lead to panic.

Call for help if you’re not a strong swimmer. Escape involves floating with the current, then swimming parallel to the shore to cross the current's edge. If you can’t swim, call for help and wave your arms to get the attention of a lifeguard or other people on the beach.

If you know how to swim, you should be able to escape and swim back to shore at an angle away from the current. However, if you have any doubt about your ability to break free of the current, call and wave for help.