Rip currents spell trouble for Florida swimmers
Rip current warnings remain in effect for the Northeast Florida area as of Tuesday, with high risks expected for beaches in Duval, St. John’s and Flagler counties.
Beachgoers on Memorial Day seemed to be observing red flag warnings posted at beaches on the southern end of the area coasts, but some still ventured beyond posted swimming areas where there was no lifeguard. Over the holiday weekend, hundreds of swimmers at Florida beaches required help from lifeguards and others. There’s never a good reason to take a risk associated with swimming, no matter where you are.
As we walked on the beach Saturday, I realized the risks lifeguards face themselves when undertaking a rescue. Beachgoers should be sure they understand the flag system Florida uses, and they should also follow safety recommendations from the U.S. Lifesaving Association.
Recommendations like not swimming alone and never swimming in an unguarded area are common sense, but people often ignore them. Swimming only while sober is also common sense, but people ignore that one too.
As we took our beach stroll, letting the water rush around our legs, I realized how strong the surf was. At times, it was hard to stand. I was glad to see parents keeping a watchful eye on their children. Rip currents can get even the strongest swimmer in trouble.
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Photo of Ponte Vedra Beach by Kay B. Day
May 30th, 2007 at 6:51 am
Kay, yesterday a strong 31 year old man died while saving 2 children from the rip tide in Palm Beach. The children survived. You are absolutely correct that rip currents are deadly.
May 30th, 2007 at 10:07 am
Beth, that’s terrible. I think people unfamiliar with beach-swimming are more at risk. There’s so much safety information available, I wish people would use it more effectively. Always glad to see you in my cyber-corner!–best, Kay