Signs that a rip current may be present:
• A break in the incoming wave pattern.
• A channel of churning, choppy water.
• A line of foam or debris moving seaward.
• A difference in water color.

If caught in a rip current:
• Stay calm.
• Don’t fight the current.
• Swim in a direction following the shoreline (parallel).
• Float or tread water if you’re unable to escape by swimming. When the current weakens, swim at an angle (away from the current) toward shore.
• If you cannot reach shore, draw attention to yourself. Face the shore, call or wave for help.

Helping someone else:
• Many people have died while trying to rescue others caught in rip currents.
• Don’t become a victim yourself. If a lifeguard is not present, shout directions on how to escape the current.
• If possible, throw something that floats to the rip current victim.
• Call 911.

The brochure Rip Currents! Break the Grip of the Rip was produced by NOAA National Weather Service, NOAA National Sea Grant College Program and the United States Lifesaving Association.

To order the Rip current brochure or beach signs, see www.miseagrant.umich.edu/rip for details, or call (734) 764-1118.