New York Rip Tide Drownings
More than a half dozen people have drowned or have been reported missing since strong rip tides hit the New York coastline the weekend of July 25, 2008.1 Rip tides were also responsible for hundreds of lifeguard rescues and several drowning deaths along the Northern Atlantic coast earlier in the month. The earlier rip tides were influenced by Hurricane Bertha, which passed near the New York coastline.2
Fast Facts
- Moderate rip tides reported, but no warnings given to swimmers3
- Casualties include: 10-year old girl, 22-year old father3
- Rockaway Beach area is widely known for its dangerous currents4
Rip Tides
Rip tides are strong currents that pull swimmers away from the shore and out to sea. Rip tides are very dangerous, even for strong swimmers, but are particularly deadly to children and the elderly. The New York Daily News has published information on how to escape a rip tide:5
- Do not fight against the current
- Swim parallel to the shore until the tug of the riptide dissipates
- Get the attention of a lifeguard
- If safe to do so, swim towards shore with the waves
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