Avoid the Danger of Drowning

The recent headlines, "Two Ohio students drown, One missing in Costa Rica" resurfaced a memory from my younger years.

On a beautiful and warm summer day, we had headed to the Jersey Shore and were basking in the sun and working on our tans. After several hours of beach-sleeping, I decided to take a dip in the ocean.

The saltwater was refreshing and I waded deeper and deeper, floating in the waves. I realized that I was getting further and further from the shoreline but it was relaxing and I was enjoying the experience when suddenly a wave washed over me and began to draw me out.

Panic washed over me as suddenly as the water and I realized that I didn't have the strength to return to shore. I began to flail my arms in an attempt to draw attention when I felt a tug underneath my waist. I almost screamed until I heard his voice.

It was the lifeguard. He yelled that he had been "blowing his whistle" at me for some time and I ignored his warnings. Truthfully, I hadn't even heard him. He swam with me in tow, safely back to shore. Mere minutes and I would have drowned for sure.

You can read the warnings on " How to Avoid and Survive Rip Currents" on the Weather Channel website here.

It was a strong undertow current that swept the group from Ohio out into the Pacific Ocean off the coast of Costa Rica recently. The group was on a mission's trip to help the people in the Central American country. They will not be coming home and their families are devastated because they underestimated the strong currents of the ocean waters.

You should never underestimate the power of the Ocean. During 2010, there were over 6,000 rescues in the United States by lifeguards. As we head into the summer months and thousands head to the beaches, remember the vital warnings:

Only swim in the ocean in a lifeguard protected area.

Never swim alone.

Sources: http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20110505/ap_on_re_us/us_students_swept_to_sea_10

http://www.deseretnews.com/article/700132877/2-Ohio-students-drown-1-missing-in-Costa-Rica.html

http://www.weather.com/activities/recreation/boatandbeach/ripcurrents_avoid.html

http://www.surfnetparents.com/drowning_dangers_what_to_watch_out_for-1091.html