How to Stay Safe and Swim Smart at Exmouth Beach
This season, the RNLI is urging anyone visiting the coast to follow its beach safety advice and to clue up on the signs of rip currents. With more than 60 per cent of RNLI lifeguard incidents involving rip currents and, in particular, with the estuary tides in Exmouth causing strong undercurrents, it is important to be looking out for potential dangers.
Follow the RNLI's advice when swimming in the sea in ExmouthExmouth beach is known for especially powerful rip currents, which become hazardous during the outgoing tides that flow east toward Budleigh. Incoming tides can also push currents west toward Exeter, sometimes cutting off the access between Orcombe Point and Sandy Bay.
In 2024, the RNLI lifeboat crews and lifeguards across the south west responded to a total of 8,367 incidents, saving 82 lives and assisting 9,178 people. The majority of emergencies involved boats suffering mechanical failures and paddleboarders or kayakers caught off guard by the changing sea conditions.
Rip currents remain a leading cause of accidental drowning, making awareness and precaution essential for beachgoers.
What is a rip current?
A riptide is a strong, narrow current that flows away from the beach pulling people out to sea with it. Rips are especially powerful in larger surf but are also found around river mouths and estuaries. Being caught in a rip can be a frightening experience but there are things you can do to avoid them.
How to spot and avoid a rip current
It can be tricky to spot a rip current, but the most obvious sign is a channel of churning, choppy water on the sea's surface. Look for areas where there is a lot of foam, seaweed, or debris moving away from the shore. The best way to avoid rips is to choose a lifeguarded beach and always swim between the red and yellow flags.
What to do if you get caught in a rip
- If you ever find yourself in a rip current, try to stay calm and don't attempt to swim against it or you'll get exhausted.
- If you're able, swim parallel to the shoreline until you're free of the rip and then head back to the beach.
- If you're unable to swim and are getting tired, let the current carry you out to sea until you reach the point where it weakens.
- Always raise your hand and shout for help. Alert the lifeguard by putting your fist in the air. This is an international distress signal and should be used alongside shouting for help.
- If you see anyone else in trouble, alert the lifeguards or call 999 or 112 and ask for the coastguard.
General advice from the RNLI states that before entering the water, people should inform their friends and family of their plans and always consult the local lifeguards for safety advice on that day. Conditions can change daily, and even hourly, so it is strongly recommended to check for any dangers and become familiar with local hazards. People are reminded that when visiting the coast, they should always choose a lifeguarded beach and swim between the red and yellow flags, as this area is identified by lifeguards as the safest place to enter the water.
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