SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2016
| TAMPA BAY MAGAZINE 141
If you do get caught in a rip current, try to remain calm.
The harder you try to fight against nature, the more tired and
panicky you are apt to become. If possible, make an effort to
swim parallel to it until you reach safety. Then, swim at an angle
to it towards the shore. Another option is to float or tread water,
while letting nature run its course to eventually move you beyond
the current. If you are unable to free yourself from the current,
face the shore, then wave and scream for help.
Although rip currents are not as prevalent along the Tampa
Bay area’s coastlines as they are along those of the East Coast
of Florida and our more northern states, they are nevertheless a
reality here. Since 2004, unfortunate incidents have been reported
along the beaches of Longboat Key, Anna Maria Island, Bradenton
Beach, Pass-A-Grille, Madeira Beach and Honeymoon Island.
Prevention is a major key to water safety. Swim with friends,
rather than alone. In addition, be sure to check local weather
forecasts and heed any warnings, such as colored flags that
are sometimes flown by lifeguards and beach patrols to inform
swimmers of current conditions, or any eminent dangers. A green
flag on the beach means that it is safe to swim. A yellow flag
indicates that a medium hazard with choppy, but not threatening,
water conditions exists. A single red flag warns that dangerous
currents and rough water make it unwise to swim. Two red flags
notify the public that the beach is closed because of high surf
and currents that create unsafe conditions for even the strongest
swimmers. In addition, although they don’t report current water
conditions, blue and purple flags make swimmers aware that
dangerous marine creatures, such as sharks or jellyfish, have
been sited.
Enjoy our spectacular beaches, which are consistently rated
among the best in the world. Just remember to be aware of any
warning signs and to know how you should react if necessary.
“Know before you go, how to break the grip of the rip.”
And by all means, “If in doubt, don’t go out.” 9
EDITOR’S NOTE: If you have any questions about the people, places
or things in the Tampa Bay area, please send them to “Ask Margaret” at
Tampa Bay Magazine, 2531 Landmark Drive, Suite 101, Clearwater,
Florida 33761. We regret that not all questions can be answered.
A calm, inviting
section of water in
the midst of breaking
waves is a potentially
dangerous rip current.
This area of
brownish, murky,
mushroom-shaped
water is a rip current
that could harm
an unsuspecting
swimmer.
COURTESY OF CHRIS BREWSTER, USLA
COURTESY OF DENNIS DECKER, WCM, NWS MELBOURNE, FL