A rip current is a narrow, fast-moving channel of water that starts near the beach and extends offshore through the line of breaking waves. If a swimmer gets caught in a rip current, the best thing they can do is stay calm. The current will not pull a swimmer underwater, but it will pull them away from shore. A swimmer caught in a rip current should float and wave for help. Do not try to swim back to shore or against the rip current. Part of the "Danger Zone" series.
