Swimming Safety

National Weather Service/National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

The ocean is a wonderful place to swim—if you are careful. Swimming in the ocean is not the same as swimming in a pool or lake. Wind, waves, the change of the tide, the slope of the beach and other factors can cause strong currents to be present in the water even on the calmest days.

Ocean conditions can change from day to day and from hour to hour. Before going in the water, spend a few moments watching the waves. Wave patterns are a good indicator of the presence of currents and where deep water and other "surprises" are located. Know what to expect before you go in the water.

Be safe by following these tips for ocean swimming:

• When available, swim at beaches patrolled by lifeguards.
• Always swim with a buddy, and have adult supervision for all children.
• Know the various types of ocean currents and how to get out of them.
• Use US Coast Guard-approved flotation vests if a weak or non-swimmer.
• Avoid wearing shiny objects that may attract sharks and other fish.
• Stay alert by checking the daily NOAA Rip Current Hazard Forecast, watching the weather, staying sober, looking out for rip currents, watching for jellyfish.
• Avoid swimming where danger is present: in rough seas, in inlets, around fishing piers and surfers, at night, or during thunderstorms.

Rip Currents
Underwater sandbars often develop offshore forming a trough of water between the bar and the beach. Rip currents form when the sand bar breaks and the trapped water funnels out to the sea through the break, sometimes sweeping swimmers with it.

If you find yourself caught in a rip current, don’t swim against the current. Instead, remain calm and swim across the current, parallel to the shore, slowly working your way back to the beach at an angle. Signal for help if you need it. Before heading to the beach, check the daily NOAA Rip Current Hazard Forecast.

 

NPS Photo

Lifeguarded Beaches
There are multiple beach locations along Cape Hatteras National Seashore that are staffed with lifeguards during summer months from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, 9 am to 5 pm, seven days a week. Lifeguards can answer questions on swimming safety and weather conditions.