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Mistakenly called "undertow" or "rip tides", rip currents form when water, which has been pushed forward by waves, rapidly returns seaward by way of a river-like current. They are the cause of most ocean rescues. To get out of one, swim parallel to shore until you get out of the seaward flowing current (usually about 50 yards).
When playing in the surf be especially aware of water depth. Water that is 6' deep in the "impact zone" at high tide may be as little as 3' deep at a lower tide. Experienced swimmers, surfers and body surfers know how deep the water is under the waves they ride and don't allow themselves to be thrown "over the falls" into the bottom. Collisions like that may cause serious injury - even paralysis and death. NEVER run and dive into the ocean - you never know how deep the water is until you check it!
Breaking waves, or "surf", can range from a placid 1 foot to near 15 feet and can change in size very quickly. Even small waves can pack quite a punch if you aren't prepared and are in the "imact zone". The "impact zone" is the place where the waves break and should be avoided. If you are caught in the "imapct zone" you can avoid being hit directly by the breaking wave by going in or out and diving toward the bottom when the waves approach you. Dive with your hands outstretched so that your head doesn't hit the bottom - that can cause serious back or neck injuries.
Inshore holes are deep holes that run parallel and near to the shore and are caused by currents. While people may be standing in kneee deep water a short distance from shore, inshore holes can cause you to drop in over your head just a few steps away from the beach. They are especially prevalent at hight tide where the wet sand is steep and gravelly. Parents!...watch your children. A waist deep hole for you may be overhead for your child.
Stingrays are foot long flat fish that appear seasonally during the warmer months to feed in shallow water where people often walk. They have a barb at the base of their tail that flips up, if they are stepped on, and inflicts a painful puncture wound on the unsuspecting wader's feet. The best way to avoid them is to make a lot of noise by shuffeling your feet to scare them away.
The beach can be an enjoyable place by following these ocean safety tips:
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The beach ordinances are intended to make our beach safe and enjoyable
for everyone. The following are NOT permitted on the beach and are
enforced by lifeguards: