A FRESH warning has been issued by Jersey Coastguard about the dangers of rip currents as more Islanders flock to the beach in sunny weather conditions.
In a post on social media, the search-and-rescue organisation provided information to Islanders “which could save your life if you are stuck in a rip current”.
If caught in a rip, Islanders are advised:
– Don’t panic as it can exhaust you. Try and stay calm.
– Avoid trying to fight the current, try to swim parallel to the shore.
– If you are unable to swim out, float on your back to keep your head above water. Wave your arms and shout for help.
– As rip currents are narrow you will eventually come out of it. Once you are out, swim at an angle back to the shore.
– If you see someone who is caught in a current, don’t attempt to rescue them as you could get caught as well. Instead throw a flotation device and call for a lifeguard.
In 2020, the RNLI issued a rip current warning after ten swimmers had to be rescued.
And in 2019, off-duty lifeguards and surfers were forced to spring into action at St Ouen’s Bay to save bathers who were at risk of drowning after getting caught in a rip.
