Tips to Safely Swim With Waves
It's fun to swim in the ocean, but not when you're getting knocked down by waves.
There are a few different methods you can try to swim with a wave properly.
Dive under large waves once they're about 5 to 6 feet away.
You'll want to get at least 3 to 4 feet below it and swim forward as much as you can.
This way, the wave will pass over you gently.
If the water is too shallow, instead of diving, crouch down and keep a low profile.
You can usually tell if a wave is safe to swim in by its shape.
If the crest of a wave tumbles down its front, it's a spilling wave, which is the safest
type to swim in.
Spilling waves tend to occur on slightly sloped beaches.
A plunging wave is not safe.
You can see it when they start to make a crescent or tube shape.
If you get stuck in this kind of wave, hug your knees and curl up into a ball.
Never turn your back towards the ocean.
You don't want to get knocked down by a surprisingly large wave.
Pay attention to what's underneath you.
Feel around with your feet to know when a shallow spot is coming.
For more safety and preparedness tips and tools, visit AccuWeather.com slash ready.