GoPro Video Shows Dramatic Rescue Of Frantic Swimmer Caught In Rip Current

“It can create a strong lateral current, meaning people get pushed sideways down the beach and into spots they may not realize are risky”.

As lifeguards swam out, Barillas said, a lifeguard captain on shore saw the man disappear under the waves.

Swim parallel to the shore to the left or right to get out of the current. Rescue divers reached the third man about 30 minutes after he was seen going under.

The man was transported to Marina del Rey Hospital. He was initially listed in grave condition but was pronounced dead early Friday morning.

Santa Barbara lifeguards don’t expect numbers that high but they are prepared for a crowded beaches.

Lifeguards at Wrightsville Beach will be fulled staffed for the Labor Day weekend. They want to emphasize the importance of swimming near a lifeguard station.

“The water has been very warm lately, so that entices people to go in”, Pearsall said, warning that swimmers who are out of their element should “swim by lifeguards” and “be knowledgeable of their environments”.

Lifeguards are urging beachgoers deciding to swim to ask a lifeguard where it’s safe to do so. The National Weather Service says rip currents can move up to eight feet per second.

Once you are free, swim back to shore.