Rip currents are found on surf beaches all over the world. Records collected throughout the USA, Australia and the UK show that rip currents represent a major cause of rescue and drowning to beach water users, especially inexperienced bathers. Due to this, many popular surf beaches have a lifeguard presence and those leading surf-related watersports activities need to have an understanding of surf lifesaving basics.

This website is designed to provide an up-to-date information resource for surf lifesavers, as well as interested water-users, on the basics of rip currents and rip hazards in the UK. With improved knowledge, experience and physical ability, rip currents need not present such a significant hazard to the public.

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