Caution Urged on Oregon Beaches After Series of Accidents

People are urged to be especially careful with their children.

Photo by: Tim King

(CANNON BEACH, Ore.) - Warm weather and the lure of an ocean beach have resulted in several water rescues on the North Oregon Coast just as the Fourth of July Holiday arrives.

Chris Havel with Oregon Parks and Recreation says strong tides are producing conditions that expose swimmers and waders to dangerous rip currents.

"Beach visitors have been knocked off their feet by the surf, then swept away from the beach by rip currents in three separate incidents at Fort Stevens State Park during the past two days."

Rip currents are strong currents of water that rush out to sea. Experts say they can be stronger than even the best swimmer. These currents can swiftly sweep unwary beachcombers and waders off their feet and out to sea.

Rip currents may appear as dark, choppy water. Visitors who see debris and foam floating out to sea may be witnessing the results of a nearby rip current, and should be wary.

Identifying a rip current can be difficult, and the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department urges beach visitors to re-read basic beach safety tips before they visit. To avoid or escape rip currents:

"If in doubt, don't go out"

Low tides and warm weather may be bringing people further into the surf than they would normally go, and rip currents may be more common during strong changes in the tide. Visitors should take the time to know the tide schedule, and, given the increase in accidents on the north coast over the past three days, avoid playing in the surf during low tides in the north coast region.

"Know how to swim"

If caught in a rip current, swim parallel to the shore until out of it, then at an angle back to shore. If unable to swim, tread water and wave or call for help.

"Never swim alone"

A rip current can form anywhere, but seem to have become especially common north of Tillamook Head during the past week, so visitors are urged to take special care when visiting this area.