How to identify a rip current is an important skill that surf lifesavers need to develop – and it is not an easy skill to master. In 2018, research revealed that most beachgoers are not confident in identifying rips and that the majority of confident people are not able to identify rips correctly[14].
Wind and water movement can make it extremely difficult to know exactly the characteristics of each particular rip current’s speed, strength and direction. From the shoreline, you may not be able to determine if the current is circulating in the surf zone or extending out to sea. You may need to view the rip current from an elevated location to have a better understanding of its characteristics.
Five common signs of a rip current are[15] :
- deeper, darker-coloured water
- fewer breaking waves
- a rippled appearance, surrounded by smoother water
- debris floating seaward
- foamy or discoloured sandy water extending beyond the surf zone.
Rip currents may not necessarily show all five signs at once and may have only one or two of these signs.
Public education about rip currents is an essential element in reducing the rate of drowning. At every opportunity, lifesavers should educate the public to pause and review the surf conditions before entering the water, taking time to identify and avoid rip currents.