Projo 7 to 7 News Blog

State beaches are all officially closed, and it's a good thing.

The Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency is warning potential swimmers and surfers to stay out of the water because of dangerous rip currents that grow stronger before tropical storms and hurricanes.

The first safety tip when it comes to dealing with rip currents, or any beach dangers, is always swim where there's a lifeguard. There are no lifeguards on duty at state beaches until next summer.

And though the rip currents are especially strong before a storm, try to stay clear -- at least 100 feet -- of piers and jetties which sometimes create permanent rip currents. And, believe it or not, polarized sunglasses will help you spot the signature movement of rip currents by cutting glare off the water's surface.

If you do find yourself caught in a rip current, RIMA warns not to fight the water, but to think of it like a treadmill that won't stop; you just need to step off to the side. If you can, swim parallel to the shore line, out of the current. If not, just float or tread water until you drift out of the current.

If you still can't get out of the current, wave your arms and yell for help -- but try not to panic. And if you see someone struggling in the water, don't jump in; call a lifeguard, call 911, or try to throw something that floats, such as a lifejacket or a beach ball, to the person.

Find a surf forecast and rip tide risk assessment online.

Download a .pdf diagram explaining how rip currents form.

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