Page 23 - CAHUITA TOURIST GUIDE

Security
Safety advice for Swimmers
Dear tourist
yAlthough the majority of beaches are suitable for swimming, there are some that because of their ocean conditions, shifting sands, and geomorphology are susceptible to under currents, also known as rip tides.
yThe following is to provide some useful advice to identify them, as well as freeing yourself in the event you get caught in one, and also some general advice to enjoy the beach safely.
How can you identify a riptide?
y A channel of turbulent water moving out to sea. y An Area that has a visibly unusual color, usually
due to swirling sediment from the beach.
y A formation of foam, algae, or litter moving uniformly out to sea.
y A disturbance in the waveline coming to shore.
yRemember that in many cases, these types of currents are unperceivable to the naked eye and although the ocean may seem calm, they still may be present, especially in beaches where the sediment is thick or the sand is white.
How to avoid being trapped by a rip tide?
y Be very cautious. Ocean conditions can change at any moment.
yRemember that rivers and lakes also have currents that may be dangerous.
y Never swim alone.
y Swim near lifeguards. If there are none, look for signage warning of dangerous currents, or ask some of the locals if the beach is dangerous or not..
What can I do if a riptide gets a hold of me?
y Try to stay calm to conserve energy.
y Don´t fight the current.
y Swim perpendicular to the current or parallel to the beach.
y Once you feel that you are free of the current, swim to shore.
y If unable to do the aforementioned, wade in the water. The force of the current lessens as it goes out to sea. When the current diminishes, swim toward the shore.
yIf, at any moment you feel that you cannot reach the shore, get someone’s attention: face the beach, wave your arms and shout for help.
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