Lifeguards give tips to keep beachgoers safe from rip currents
Deputy Chief of Long Beach Lifeguards Phil Cabasino says they have two green flags and two red flags. Swimmers should stay between the two green flags and stay outside of the red flag area.
Jul 7, 2023, 5:18 PM
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Updated
Lifeguards are reminding Long Islanders to be aware of dangerous rip currents in the ocean.
Deputy Chief of Long Beach Lifeguards Phil Cabasino says beachgoers can still enjoy the water and keep some important tips in mind.
"Every time anyone comes to the beach, the first thing they should do is go to the lifeguard chair, where they're set up and ask them where the best place to swim is," Cabasino says.
Lifeguards also use a flag system to keep swimmers safe.
Cabasino says they have two green flags and two red flags. Swimmers should stay between the two green flags and stay outside of the red flag area.
He says the worst things to do if you get caught in a rip current is to panic.
"Usually panicking gets you in a state of not thinking clearly, using a lot of energy," Cabasino says. "If you can swim, I would try to swim out of the rip current, try to swim parallel to shore. But if not, try to tread water and try to use the least amount of energy as possible."
Officials also remind beachgoers to never go swimming when lifeguards are off duty.
