Increasing rip current awareness through education and research
"We are dedicated to reducing the number of rip current drowings at beaches throughout the world."
View rip current brochures by Dr. Stephen Leatherman as published by ELICCA (Eastern Long Island Coastal Conservation Alliance) Click to see ELICCA Publications
What is a rip current?
Rip Currents are powerful currents of water moving away from shore, capable of sweeping even the strongest swimmers out to sea and are often called “killer currents” for a good reason. Although estimates vary, rip currents are responsible for approximately 100 deaths every year and probably thousands worldwide. Through raising awareness and increasing understanding, we seek to dramatically reduce the number of fatalities from ths lurking danger.
Shown above: Photographs 1-3 by Rob Brander, Photograph 4 by Dr. Stephen Leatherman.
Rip Currents are powerful currents of water moving away from shore, capable of sweeping even the strongest swimmers out to sea and are often called “killer currents” for a good reason. Although estimates vary, rip currents are responsible for approximately 100 deaths every year and probably thousands worldwide. Through raising awareness and increasing understanding, we seek to dramatically reduce the number of fatalities from ths lurking danger.
This is not actually a rip current--just strong backwash, but I think it's a good example of what some people think are rips.
Sobering but pretty funny at the same time...for obvious reasons!
Dr. Beach's Water Tracer is a method of detecting surface water currents, especially life-threatening rip currents at surf beaches, has been developed. The water tracer is biodegradable and non-toxic.
Photo: Water Tracers (Dye balls), which can easily be thrown tens of feet, are orange in solid form.
We honor the memory of Giankarlo Squicimari, who unfortunately drowned
while attempting to rescue a young girl from a rip current.
