Get ready for the change of seasons with safety tips, videos and infographics
![Image showing a rip current using a harmless green dye (Image credit: NOAA National Ocean Service) Image showing a rip current using a harmless green dye](/sites/default/files/styles/landscape_width_1275/public/2022-06/ai-rip-current.jpg?h=6351eb8c&itok=AOn0NE7H)
This image shows a rip current using a harmless green dye. Rip currents are powerful, narrow channels of fast-moving water that are prevalent along the East, Gulf, and West coasts of the U.S., as well as along the shores of the Great Lakes. Moving at speeds of up to eight feet per second, rip currents can move faster than an Olympic swimmer. Remember: If caught in a rip current, swim parallel to the beach to escape the current. (Image credit: NOAA National Ocean Service)