Expert Offers Safety Guidance Amid Surge in Rip Current Rescues on East Coast
As numerous individuals along the East Coast faced perilous rip currents last week, safety experts have provided essential advice for beachgoers ahead of the 4th of July holiday weekend.
Reports indicate that since Sunday, over 100 people have been saved from coastal waters at Jersey Shore beaches, predominantly due to rip currents, as highlighted by local news outlets. Additionally, ten rescues were documented in Wilmington, North Carolina, stemming from similar dangers.
Harry Harsin, a lifeguard in Belmar, New Jersey, remarked that Sunday was particularly busy, indicating an influx of beach visitors eager to enjoy the water. “The conditions weren’t very favorable,” he noted. “With the heatwave and a late start to summer, we saw a huge crowd. It was a chaotic day.”
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According to the United States Lifesaving Association, annually, more than 100 rip current-related fatalities occur, marking it as a significant threat for beach enthusiasts. Reports from the NOAA also reveal that tens of thousands of rescues are conducted each year due to rip currents.
Captain Geoff Fahringer, a former dive team captain with the Collier County Sheriff’s Office and a licensed U.S. Coast Guard boat captain, emphasizes the importance of being “situationally aware” in the water.
“Part of being situationally aware includes observing the current as soon as you arrive at the beach,” he advised. “You might find yourself drifting without even realizing it; just 15 minutes can carry you far away from your starting point.”
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Regarding rip currents, Fahringer urged beachgoers to familiarize themselves with their specific beach environment.
“Some beaches rarely experience rip currents, while others, particularly on the East Coast, frequently encounter them,” he explained. “Recognize the terrain and conditions so you can identify if you’re being swept farther out than anticipated.”
Tips for Managing Rip Current Encounters
In such scenarios, Fahringer recommends remaining calm. “Swim at a right angle to the current, either left or right, at a slow pace—just dog paddle,” he advised. “Rip currents aren’t typically wide, so you can escape and make your way back to shore safely.”

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