Are Riptides Real?
Welcome to Paradise.
I'll admit it, things are different in Florida than they are elsewhere in the United States. This morning our four year old was telling some new residents about his latest Fire Ant Attack. The mom didn't know ants could bite and Rocky was trying to explain the difference between Fire, Ghost and Tickle Ants. (Side note: I think Tickle Ants are Rocky's own inventions but, it is really important to be able to spot and avoid Fire Ants in Florida - the bites hurt and often happen once a bunch of them are on you so, you have no warning about the impending attack.)
At any rate, let's tackle Rip Current. (Rip Tide)
I never really understood them until I moved to Florida. Essentially, a rip current is when water flows quickly from waves (or from tides) from onshore to offshore. If you get caught in one, it will push you out to sea and can be very dangerous. However, if you are aware of it happening, you just swim parallel to shore until you are out and then you're safe.
These currents happen very frequently when sand bars are formed so, surprise people even if they are familiar with the body of water. We have been swimming off sandbars and discussing rip currents since our son was born to ensure his safety. It's important to do and sometimes, it's just downright fun to find brand new sandbars....
I'll admit it, things are different in Florida than they are elsewhere in the United States. This morning our four year old was telling some new residents about his latest Fire Ant Attack. The mom didn't know ants could bite and Rocky was trying to explain the difference between Fire, Ghost and Tickle Ants. (Side note: I think Tickle Ants are Rocky's own inventions but, it is really important to be able to spot and avoid Fire Ants in Florida - the bites hurt and often happen once a bunch of them are on you so, you have no warning about the impending attack.)
At any rate, let's tackle Rip Current. (Rip Tide)
I never really understood them until I moved to Florida. Essentially, a rip current is when water flows quickly from waves (or from tides) from onshore to offshore. If you get caught in one, it will push you out to sea and can be very dangerous. However, if you are aware of it happening, you just swim parallel to shore until you are out and then you're safe.
These currents happen very frequently when sand bars are formed so, surprise people even if they are familiar with the body of water. We have been swimming off sandbars and discussing rip currents since our son was born to ensure his safety. It's important to do and sometimes, it's just downright fun to find brand new sandbars....
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