TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – As Memorial Day weekend and a tropical weather system approach, beachgoers are urged to monitor surf conditions.
The National Weather Service said a tropical disturbance could become more organized in the Atlantic Ocean throughout the weekend, increasing the risk of rip currents along the coastline from Jacksonville to Miami. A moderate risk of rip currents already exists along all Panhandle beaches.
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“Rip currents can be difficult to detect, even in blue skies and especially around piers and jetties,” said Florida Division of Emergency Management Director Bryan Koon. “Pay attention to the beach warning flags for current surf conditions, and be sure you know what to do if you experience a rip current.”
FDEM officials said understanding the beach warning flags will help keep everyone safe in the water. Red flags flying mean the coastal waters can be dangerous.
Officials have a few tips to remember for the weekend.
When at the beach:
- Before you leave for the beach, check the latest National Weather Service forecast at www.ripcurrents.noaa.gov for local beach conditions.
- Obey all instructions and orders from lifeguards. Lifeguards are trained to identify hazards.
- Know the meaning of and obey warnings represented by colored beach flags.
Different beaches may use different colors but a commonly used series include:Â Â
- Double red: Beach is closed to the public
- Single red: High hazard, e.g., strong surf or currents
- Yellow: Medium hazard
- Green: Calm conditions although caution is still necessary
- Purple: Flown with either Red or Yellow: Dangerous marine life
- Stay at least 100 feet away from piers and jetties. Permanent rip currents often exist alongside these structures.                                              Â
- Pay especially close attention to children and persons who are elderly when at the beach. Even in shallow water, wave action can cause loss of footing.
- Be cautious. Always assume rip currents are present even if you don’t see them.
 If caught in a rip current:
- Don't panic. Remain calm to conserve energy and think clearly.
- Never swim against the rip current. Stay afloat and signal for help.
- Swim out of the current in a direction following the shoreline. When out of the current, swim at an angle – away from the current – toward shore.
- If you are unable to swim out of the rip current, float or calmly tread water.
- Draw attention to yourself: face the shore, wave your arms, and shout for help.
If you see someone in trouble, don't become a victim too:
- Get help from a lifeguard, or if one is unavailable have someone call 911.
- Throw the rip current victim something that floats -- a life jacket, a cooler or an inflatable ball.
- Shout instructions on how to escape.
Click here for the latest information on the 2016 hurricane season.