On Tuesday at 11:04 a.m. a rip current statement was issued by the National Weather Service valid from Wednesday 6 p.m. until Thursday noon for Mobile and Baldwin counties.

The weather service adds, “Dangerous rip currents expected.”

“Rip currents can sweep even the best swimmers away from shore into deeper water,” describes the weather service. “Swim near a lifeguard. If caught in a rip current, relax and float. Don’t swim against the current. If able, swim in a direction following the shoreline. If unable to escape, face the shore and call or wave for help.”

Caught in a rip: How to stay safe

Rip currents, those swift-moving channels of water flowing away from the shore at surf beaches, can pose a serious threat to beachgoers. These currents vary in speed and can swiftly become perilous for anyone venturing into the surf. Even strong swimmers can find themselves overpowered by the force of a rip current. It’s essential to know how to respond if you’re caught in one. Here’s what you need to do, based on guidance from the weather service:

1. Keep your cool – they won’t drag you under:

• Your first rule of thumb: Keep a clear head. Rip currents won’t pull you beneath the water’s surface. Panic is your enemy; it depletes precious energy needed for your survival.

2. Don’t swim against the current:

• Trying to swim directly toward the beach when caught in a rip current is futile and exhausting. The current is too strong. Instead, swim parallel to the shore and away from the rip current’s grip.

3. Signal for help if necessary:

• If you find yourself unable to reach the shore, try to relax. Turn to face the shore, tread water, and signal for help by shouting or waving your arms. This increases your visibility to potential rescuers.

4. Seek lifeguarded beaches for added safety:

• If at all possible, only swim at beaches with lifeguards.

5. Never brave the waves alone on unguarded shores:

• If you decide to swim at beaches without lifeguards, establish a cardinal rule: never go solo. Always bring a companion, and ensure they have a cell phone to call 911 if needed.

Rip currents are formidable natural forces, but knowing how to react can significantly increase your chances of safely navigating these challenging waters. Stay informed, stay vigilant, and prioritize safety when enjoying the surf.

Advance Local Weather Alerts is a service provided by United Robots, which uses machine learning to compile the latest data from the National Weather Service.