and swimming parallel to the shoreline to move out of the current when possible. Once free of the current, you can angle back toward shore.
This distinction is important because simply seeing square waves doesn’t mean you’re automatically caught in a rip current. The appropriate response to the cross-sea pattern itself is to avoid entering the water and leave the hazardous area.
What If You Are Already in the Water?
If you notice the unusual pattern only after you’re already swimming, don’t panic.
The first goal is to remain calm and avoid making sudden decisions based on fear.
If there is a lifeguard nearby, follow their directions. If you are experiencing a current pulling you away from shore, remember the basic rip-current response: don’t fight directly against the current. Float or tread water to conserve energy, signal for help if needed, and move parallel to the shoreline when you can
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