JACKSONVILLE BEACH, Fla — The Fourth of July is expected to be the busiest day of the year at Jacksonville Beach and the rip current risk could be moderate, according to First Coast News meteorologists.
In the last two weeks, eight people have died in rip currents in Florida over just four days, according to the National Weather Service. The people killed included the parents of six children and a group of friends on vacation, law enforcement said.
Rip currents are top of mind for Ariel Stanton and Al Williams, who were at Jacksonville Beach Wednesday but live closer to the Gulf Coast where most of the rip current deaths occurred.
“The waves were really aggressive so that's why we're kind of out just chilling in the sand,” Stanton said.
Lt. Maxwell Ervanian with Jacksonville Beach Ocean Rescue said there are ways to stay safe.
Beachgoers may have heard to check the color of the flag at beach entrances and swim near a lifeguard. But how often do you check ocean conditions before you go? You can do that online, on Jacksonville Beach Ocean Rescue’s website.
“Ask a lifeguard where the best place to swim is,” Ervanian said.
If you get caught in a rip current, stay calm, signal for help and swim parallel to the shore. Don't swim against the current.
Ervanian said when it comes to additional beach safety issues, make sure to bring enough water and have a designated person to watch any children you're with.