Responses of Swimmers Caught in Rip Currents: Perspectives on Mitigating the Global Rip Current Hazard

Authors

Robert W. Brander, The University of New South WalesFollow
Anthony Bradstreet, Surf Life Saving Australia
Shauna Sherker, Surf Life Saving Australia
Jamie MacMahan, Naval Postgraduate School

DOI

https://doi.org/10.25035/ijare.05.04.11

Abstract

Rip currents are the primary mechanism on many of the world’s beaches associated with rescues and drownings and have long been the focus of beachgoer education and awareness strategies. Traditional approaches to mitigating the rip current hazard typically provide information on escape procedures for beachgoers caught in a rip current. Several of these approaches are now being challenged by new scientific findings leading to uncertainty and debate amongst scientists and beach safety practitioners. This paper suggests that future research efforts on mitigating the rip current hazard should focus on quantifying the physical and behavioral responses of beachgoers who have been caught in rip currents. Descriptions of new approaches adopted recently in Australia by a joint collaboration between the University of New South Wales and Surf Life Saving Australia are presented.

Recommended Citation

Brander, Robert W.; Bradstreet, Anthony; Sherker, Shauna; and MacMahan, Jamie (2011) "Responses of Swimmers Caught in Rip Currents: Perspectives on Mitigating the Global Rip Current Hazard," International Journal of Aquatic Research and Education: Vol. 5: No. 4, Article 11.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.25035/ijare.05.04.11
Available at: https://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/ijare/vol5/iss4/11