Silent beach threat: Rip currents and how to stay safe

The beach is a busy place to escape the summertime heat. There are always people in the water. Thanks to tropical activity offshore, even those “beach-perfect” days can bring hidden dangers to swimmers (and we are not talking about sharks).

The threat for rip currents increases for Florida's East Coast through Friday afternoon. So, if you have a day off this week and the warm temperatures are sending you to the beach, make sure to look out for those flags warning you about the risk of rip currents and try your best to stay away from the water. If you must swim, make sure to do so near a lifeguard.

Rip currents are strong channels of water flowing from near the coast out past the surf zone that can pull the strongest swimmer into the deep waters. During hurricane season, especially peak hurricane season, rip currents can become more common as the tropical systems approach or pass the coastline bringing strong wind and wave activity. But rip currents can occur along all coasts, during any season.

Among all surf zone fatalities, 80 percent are caused by rip currents, and the victims are mostly men between the ages of 10-29. Rip currents result in at least 100 American fatalities each year and half of all fatalities occur along the Gulf Coast states and eastern Florida coast.

It is best if you avoid going in the water when there is the risk of rip currents, even if there is a low threat. Always check with lifeguards and learn what each flag means.

The good news is that many times rip currents can be spotted when standing on the shore looking toward the water.

Here are a few safety tips in case you are ever caught in a rip current: