With peak hurricane season approaching, the risks of rip currents and rough waves are clear. Local beaches are at increased risk of rip currents and rough waves over the weekend, and experts advise those heading out for the last taste of summer to take extra precautions.

Rip currents were third on the list of weather-related deaths in the United States last year. One reason for this is that rip currents are so sneaky and subtle that they can catch swimmers off guard.

A rip current is a watercourse that flows away from the shoreline, usually from a sandbar crack and the momentum of the water moving with the waves.

The most important thing when caught in a rip current is to swim calmly as the water is pulling swimmers into the sea. It is difficult to swim back to shore. Instead, it is recommended to swim parallel to shore. This helps swimmers get out of the waterway and the crashing waves safely back to the sand.

Use these tips if you get caught in a rip current. However, it is recommended to check with the lifeguards and swim near them. The ocean always finds a way to win, no matter how skilled a swimmer is.