Spotting a rip from the sand
Rips are the biggest hazard on Australian beaches. Spend a couple of minutes watching the water before you go in. Look for:
- darker, deeper-looking water;
- fewer breaking waves in one patch;
- a rippled surface among smooth water;
- foam or sand being carried out past the break;
- anything floating moving steadily out to sea.
If you're caught, stay calm and float. Raise an arm to signal for help. Swim parallel to the beach or towards breaking waves when you can. Best of all, swim between the red and yellow flags.
General safety guidance from a fictional company. Follow your local lifeguards and lifesavers.