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Rip current warning in effect for area beaches

 
Published July 29, 2014

If you're headed to the beach today, be mindful of a rip current warning that's in effect through the day.

According to a National Weather Service warning, area beaches are at a moderate risk of rip currents. It cautioned that rip currents are very dangerous and can pull even the strongest swimmers out into deeper waters.

If you become caught in a rip current, remain calm and begin to swim parallel to shore. Once you are away from the force of the rip current, swim back to the beach. Don't attempt to swim directly against a rip current.

Earlier this summer, rip currents were blamed on at least two deaths.

Largo resident Isam Rizkallah, 58, jumped from his boat June 10 near Honeymoon Island to rescue his dog. Three days later Gainesville, Ga., resident Ryan Terry drowned 30 yards off Clearwater Beach, near Idlewild Street. In both cases, officials cited strong currents as a factor in their deaths.