Another important thing to know is how to get out of rip currents. This lifesaving technique is not known by many, and could’ve saved hundreds of thousands of lives. It is important to remember that rip currents do not pull people under water – they pull people away from shore. Drowning deaths usually occur when people are unable to keep themselves afloat and swim back to shore. This may be due to fear, panic, exhaustion, a lack of swimming skills, or any combination of these factors.
If you get caught in a rip current – remain calm, and try to float or tread water. Don’t swim against the current, as this is difficult for even experienced swimmers. Swim along the shoreline until you feel the current relax, or let the current carry you