Sarasota County Emergency Services has issued safety tips for spring break beachgoers regarding rip currents. Rip currents are strong flows of water moving away from shore that can sweep even experienced swimmers out to sea.

Officials recommend the following steps if caught in a rip current: stay calm and avoid fighting the current; swim out of the current first, then head toward the shore at an angle when the current no longer pulls you out to sea; if you cannot escape, float or tread water; and if you need help, call or wave for assistance.

It is advised that swimmers stay near a lifeguard and refrain from entering the water if they are unsure about conditions. More information is available at www.ripcurrents.noaa.gov and via Sarasota County Emergency Services updates.

Source: Sarasota County Emergency Services

Source Type: EMS

Source Location:

North Port, FL

6050 Porter Way, Sarasota, FL 34232

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