MUSKEGON, Mich. — Summer is here and after a recent cool stretch, beach weather is returning to the forecast, along with its inevitable dangers. This one is hidden in plain sight—rip currents.
A rip current is a channel of flowing water that can swiftly move you away from shore, often indicated by a calm area of water between breaking waves. They typically form from sandbars or near piers.
Before entering the water, check beach conditions and make sure you know what to do in the case of a rip current.
If you find yourself caught in a rip current, relax, and they will not pull you under. Even the strongest swimmers should never try to swim directly against a current into shore. Instead swim parallel to the shoreline, until you no longer feel the currents pull, then at an angle away from the rip.
If you can't make it to shore, flip onto your back, float, and follow the current. They are typically 50 to 100 feet wide and will eventually break.
Call for help if necessary, but remember, it is key not to exhaust yourself.
And if in doubt, don't go out.
If you would like the latest beach and boating forecast, for Lake Michigan, text BEACH to 616.559.1310.
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