As temperatures climb and more Texans and tourists head to the coast, beach safety becomes critical—especially when it comes to rip currents, one of the most dangerous and misunderstood ocean hazards.
Rip currents are narrow, fast-moving channels of water that flow away from the shore, capable of pulling even strong swimmers far out to sea. They can form at any beach with breaking waves and are especially common near piers, jetties, or low spots in sandbars.
How to Spot a Rip Current
While not always visible, some signs of a rip current include:
- A gap in the line of incoming waves
- Water that looks darker or murkier than the surrounding area
- Foam, seaweed, or debris moving seaward
- A noticeable difference in water texture or choppiness
If You’re Caught in a Rip Current:
- Don’t panic. Rip currents don’t pull you under; they pull you away from shore.
- Don’t fight the current. Trying to swim straight back to shore will exhaust you.
- Swim parallel to the shoreline. Most rip currents are narrow; escaping sideways gets you out faster.
- Float and signal for help if needed. If you can’t escape, float calmly or tread water. Face the shore and wave your arms or shout for help.
What Bystanders Should Do:
Never jump in to rescue someone unless you’re trained and equipped to do so. Instead, call 911 or alert a lifeguard. If possible, throw a flotation device to the swimmer.
Galveston Beach Patrol’s Advice
Lt. Austin Kirwin, acting chief of the Galveston Island Beach Patrol, reminds visitors: “Always swim near a lifeguard and pay attention to flag warnings. Most drownings happen outside guarded areas.”
Know Before You Go
Before heading to the beach, check surf conditions and rip current forecasts from the National Weather Service or local beach patrols.
KGTX 7 Galveston County 