We often hear people say "Be careful of the rip".
But what is a rip?
Rip is a natural phenomenon, a narrow channel of water near breaking waves, where the current is flowing away from the shoreline. This current can be fast and powerful, such that if you are unaware about the characteristics of the waves, it can be hazardous, in some cases, fatal.
According to Surf Lifesaving Australia, rip currents are a common feature of the Australian beaches, with estimated 17,000 rips occurring in any given day, and 21 drowning death each year, due to the rip.
Akari Sakauchi is a lifesaver based in Manly, New South Wales.
She says that what makes the rip so dangerous, is that it can often appear calm and safe to someone who is unfamiliar with the characteristics of the waves.
"There are fewer white breaking waves, and the water can appear deep green, and calm"
Despite what it may look from the surface, once caught in a rip, the fast flowing current can take you offshore.
Source: Akari Sakauchi
"The first thing is to stay calm and don't panic" she spoke to SBS Japanese.
"Think about the characteristic of the rip. It will not take you far away. It will eventually come to a stop. It will not drag you down"
"And remember that your body is designed to float"
Raise your hand and seek help. You maybe rescued, or if there is no help near by, float with the current until it comes to a halt.
"Never swim against the rip"
Once the rip comes to a halt, you may wait for help, or you can "escape" by using the breaking waves to return to shore. Remember to swim parallel to the shore if you are swimming towards breaking waves.
Akari says that rips are only "dangerous" if you do not have the knowledge, and panic, because you have no idea what is happening to you.
"Many experienced surfers actually use the rip to go offshore. So if you really understand the rip, you can use it to your advantage and enjoy it. But if you are not a competent swimmer, stay away"
If you see someone caught in a rip, do not jump in immediately to rescue, as this action in itself can be fatal too.
Bondi Beach, Sydney Source: Yumi Oba
"I do not recommend anyone going to rescue if you do not have a flotation device, or if you are not a competent swimmer. Please go and seek help"
"Even if this is your own child [caught up in a rip], I will go and seek help"
Akari who is now 42 years old, took the bronze medallion lifesaving course when she was 40.
Having the right knowledge about the beach is key to staying safe and enjoying your time. Source: Akari Sakauchi
"My daughter joined the nippers, and I fell in love with the inclusive environment of the club"
The bronze medallion is recognized as the minimum standard for a qualified lifesaver, and the club encourages as many people to become certified.
"They want to spread the correct knowledge and protect the beach together"
"From children to experts, we are one community, one club"
According to the National Coastal Safety Report, the highest report of drowning death occur in individuals between 25-29years old, followed by 30-34 years old. And males account for 90% of coastal drowning death.
Akari fell in love with the inclusive nature of Surf Lifesaving Club, when her daughter joined the nippers Source: Akari Sakauchi
"It is often the people who are competent or confident swimmers, who may go into the water intoxicated or unwell, such that they are unable to correctly read the waves. They may also be overly confident" says Akari.
When the lockdown ended in 2020 and 2021 and people flocked to the beach, there was a 20% increase in drowning incidents, and once again, young to middle aged male were on top of the list.
"Carelessness can be fatal"
Akari says, when trying to spot a rip current, remember "white is nice, green is mean".
"Know your beach, drink plenty of water, protect yourself from the sun, and enjoy the beach this Summer"
For audio interview in Japanese
Listen to SBS Japanese Radio on Tue, Thu and Sat from 10pm
