(man) I started out afraid-- in the ocean, not a strong swimmer-- but it became a passion as I was exposed to areas like Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. The fear of the water was replaced by a fascination with what was out there. As my ability and comfort in the water increased, I began to marry a long-time endurance fascination with going longer and testing myself out there in the ocean.

(Describer) Bruckner Chase, Endurance Waterman, Ocean Positive:

The core thing about being safe in the water really boils down to one word, and it's relax. The most important thing you can take into the water is a calm state of mind. Whether you're trying to get out of a rip, or to navigate back in through waves, by staying relaxed, you can make decisions based on knowledge, and that won't make you end up in a dangerous situation. Knowledge will allow you to make good decisions before you enter into the water. Knowing where to go for resources about rip currents, about weather forecasting, what are the tides doing, what is going on and what's changing? In a six-hour tide cycle, conditions will change from setting up in the morning until you leave in the afternoon. Always check in with a lifeguard. Many people think they know, having been in the water somewhere else. Every piece of beach is very different. A jetty in one location, a sandbar in another-- the more knowledge you have before entering the water, the safer you will make yourself and those around you.

(Describer) Logos are shown for the Smithsonian and NOAA. Accessibility provided by the US Department of Education.

Accessibility provided by the U.S. Department of Education.