Rip Current Safety Guide

Rip Current Safety Guide
for the Emerald Coast

How to Spot, Avoid, and Escape a Rip Current — Plus What to Do if You’re Caught

Rip currents are one of the most dangerous — and most misunderstood — hazards at the beach. And here on Florida’s Emerald Coast, they’re more common than many visitors realize.

Whether you’re relaxing in Destin, catching waves in Miramar Beach, or staying along 30A, knowing how to recognize and escape a rip current could save your life — or someone else’s.

What Is a Rip Current?

A rip current is a fast-moving, narrow channel of water that flows directly away from the shore — usually through a break in the sandbar or alongside structures like piers and jetties.

Rip currents don’t pull you under. They pull you out — often faster than even a strong swimmer can manage, especially in knee- to waist-deep water.

How to Spot a Rip Current

Look for these warning signs in the water:

• A channel of water that looks darker, calmer, or foam-free compared to surrounding surf

• Choppy or churning water in a narrow strip heading away from the shore

• Debris, foam, or seaweed moving steadily offshore

• A noticeable break in the wave pattern

Rip currents can be subtle and hard to spot. If in doubt, check the beach flags or ask a lifeguard before entering the water.

What to Do If You’re Caught in a Rip Current

• Don’t panic. Rip currents won’t drag you under, but they can carry you out fast.
• Don’t swim directly back to shore. You’ll tire quickly fighting the current.
• Swim parallel to the shore — along the beach — until you’re out of the current’s pull.
• Once free, angle your swim back toward the beach with the help of waves.
• If you can’t escape, float or tread water and signal for help by waving and calling out.

Rip Current Survival Video

Beach Flag System: Know Before You Go

Both Okaloosa and Walton County beaches use the Florida Beach Flag Warning System:

• 🔴🔴 Double Red: Water closed to the public
• 🔴 Red: High hazard – strong surf and/or currents
• 🟡 Yellow: Moderate surf and/or currents
• 🟢 Green: Low hazard – calm conditions
• 🟣 Purple: Dangerous marine life present (jellyfish, stingrays, etc.)

Tip: Check the posted flags daily at public access points — or sign up for beach flag alerts to stay updated in real time.

Subscribe to Beach Flag Text Alerts

Stay updated on current beach conditions by subscribing to the beach flag text alert programs for Okaloosa and South Walton Beaches. This service provides daily updates on beach flag statuses and rip current forecasts, helping you plan a safe beach day.

South Walton Beach flag updates, text “Safety” to 31279.

Okaloosa Beach flag updates, text “Beach” to 44144.

Additional Resources

• NOAA’s National Weather Service and the National Ocean Service offer extensive resources on rip currents, including safety tips, how to spot them, and what to do if you’re caught in one. Visit NOAA Rip Currents and Ocean Today’s Rip Current Video for more information.
• The United States Lifesaving Association provides valuable insights on beach safety and rip current awareness.

Final Safety Tips

• Never swim alone
• Swim near lifeguards when possible
• Don’t enter the water if red flags are posted
• Teach kids how to float and how to signal for help

Plan Smart. Stay Safe. Enjoy the Beach.

A little awareness goes a long way. Rip currents are serious — but with the right knowledge, you can enjoy your beach day with confidence.

Need help planning the rest of your day on the sand? Check out our Beach Gear Rentals and Private Bonfires for a hassle-free way to enjoy the coast — delivered to your rental and picked up when you’re done.