HOW TO IDENTIFY A RIP

• Discoloured water due to sand being stirred off the bottom
• Deeper water close into shore where waves do not tend to break
• Foam on the surface extending beyond the break
• Waves breaking further out on both sides of the rip
• Debris floating seaward
• A rippled appearance, where the surrounding water is generally calm

WHAT TO DO IN A RIP OR IF CAUGHT IN A RIP

• Relax
• Don't panic. Stay calm, breathe in a regular and controlled manner, and tread water or float for a long time, even if you're exhausted or suffering from cramp. If you are tired or not an experienced swimmer, try to float out with the current.
• Float on your back and raise one arm to signal for help. Waving both arms makes it difficult to keep your head above the water.
• Float and wait for a lifesaver to rescue you. If not at a patrolled beach, swim parallel with the shore towards the breaking waves and use the wave to assist you to getting to shore.