What to do if you get caught in a fast flowing river?
What to do if you get caught in a fast flowing river? Swim towards shore in a ferry angle. A ferry angle is an angle to the current that will help utilize the current to push you to shore. This is typically a 45 degree angle to the current. If you're on your back, get into a ferry angle with your feet up and your head pointed towards the shore you want to go to.
What are the warning signs of a rip current?
A narrow gap of darker, seemingly calmer water flanked by areas of breaking waves and whitewater. A channel of churning/choppy water that is distinct from surrounding water. A difference in water color, such as an area of muddy-appearing water (which occurs from sediment and sand being carried away from the beach).
How many people have died from rip currents?
On average, about 100 people die each year in the United States because of rip currents, although the number may actually be much higher, as the cause of death for many who are rushed to a hospital from is listed as “heart attack, says Leatherman.
Do river currents pull you under?
Rivers and streams can appear calm on the surface but there may be: Strong undercurrents that can pull under even a strong and experienced swimmer.
What is an undercurrent in a river?
Britannica Dictionary definition of UNDERCURRENT. [count] 1. : a flow of water that moves below the surface of the ocean or a river. You could be pulled under water by the dangerous undercurrents.