Rip current – rip current – is a current moving from an area near the shore out toward the sea. It does not necessarily “pull you underwater.” The main danger is that it carries swimmers away from shore, causing them to panic and become exhausted while trying to swim against the current.
Prevention is better than trying to identify one visually
There are many images on the Internet claiming that: “The flat-water area between two lines of waves is definitely a rip current.” That may be just one sign, not an absolute way to identify one. Currents can be difficult to see. Therefore, the priorities should be:
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An authorized beach.
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An area with lifeguards.
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Flags and signs.
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Instructions from beach personnel.
In 2026, Quảng Ninh requires swimming activities to take place only in areas that meet the necessary conditions and prohibits swimming at high-risk, spontaneously established beaches.
If you are suddenly pulled away from shore
The first thing to do: do not try to overpower the current. NOAA recommends:
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Stay calm.
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Conserve energy.
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Try to float.
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Call for help.
If you are able to swim, move across/parallel to the shore to get out of the current’s path, then head diagonally back toward shore.
If you are not a strong swimmer
Do not attempt a technique beyond your abilities. Instead:
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Stay afloat.
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Wave your arms.
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Call out loudly.
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Wait for help.
If you see someone else being swept away
Do not jump in instinctively if you are not a lifeguard. NOAA notes that many people get into trouble while trying to rescue others. Instead:
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Call for help.
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Point out the victim’s location.
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If a floatation device/floating object is available and conditions permit, bring or throw it to the victim.
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Do not turn yourself into a second victim.
Children
Do not base safety rules on the statement: “They already know how to swim.” The sea is different from a swimming pool. Children need direct supervision and must stay within authorized swimming areas.
When Cô Tô temporarily suspends sea bathing
If the authorities announce a suspension of sea activities because of storms/rough seas, do not look for another beach that is supposedly “more sheltered from the wind.”
Quick checklist
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Swim at an authorized beach.
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Ask lifeguards about sea conditions.
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Do not swim alone.
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Caught in a current → do not swim straight against it.
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Stay afloat and call for help.
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If you are strong enough → swim across the current.
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Do not jump in to rescue someone without the necessary skills.
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No-swimming flag = stay out of the water.
