Dangerous Rip Currents in South Jersey

The National Hurricane Center has issued a high risk of rip currents for South Jersey due to Tropical Storm Cristobal. More rip current warnings may be possible for the rest of the week.  

Tropical Storm Cristobal is currently heading out to sea. Cristobal may devolop into a hurricane later in the week. The storm will remain far offshore but, it will create rough surf and dangerous rip currnet conditons.

The hardest thing to remember if you're caught in a dangerous rip is not to panic. Also, keep the following in mind.

• If you are caught in a rip current, stay calm and don’t fight the current.
• Swim parallel to the shore until you are out of the current. Once you are free, turn and swim toward shore.
• If you can’t swim to the shore, float or tread water until you are free of the rip current and then head toward shore.
• If you feel you can’t make it to the shore, draw attention to yourself by waving and calling for help.
• Stay at least 100 feet away from piers and jetties. Permanent rip currents often exist near these structures.
• If someone is in trouble in the water, get help from a lifeguard. If a lifeguard is not available, have someone call 9-1-1.Throw the victim something that floats – a lifejacket, cooler, inflatable ball and yell instructions on how to escape the current.
• When at the beach, check conditions before entering the water. Check to see if any warning flags are up or ask a lifeguard about water conditions, beach conditions, or any potential hazards.