ENJOY FLORIDA WITH CAUTION THIS HOLIDAY WEEKEND AS RIP CURRENTS AND EXTREME HEAT MAY BE PRESENT

TALLAHASSEE - The Florida Division of Emergency Management reminds beachgoers to use caution this Labor Day weekend as an elevated risk of rip currents is expected along portions of Florida’s Gulf coast and temperatures rise throughout the state.

Increased winds and waves will continue a moderate to high risk of rip currents for the entire Florida Gulf Coast this weekend, with an increasing threat for rip currents next week for Florida East Coast beaches. In addition, partly to mostly sunny skies are expected through most of Florida, which will allow temperatures to reach the low to mid nineties statewide. Hot temperatures and high humidity values will lead to heat indices to exceed 100 degrees. A Heat Advisory has been issued for the Florida Big Bend as heat index values may reach as high as 105 to 108 degrees in the afternoon.

“As residents and visitors enjoy Florida this holiday weekend, it is imperative to remember rip current and heat safety tips,” said Florida Division of Emergency Management Director Bryan W. Koon. “Don’t let a rip current or too much sun ruin your holiday weekend!”

It is important to remember that when red flags are flying, beachgoers should remain alert while visiting Florida’s beaches. Residents and visitors should also be aware of weather forecasts, and take necessary precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses.

When at the beach:

• Before you leave for the beach, check the latest National Weather Service forecast for local beach conditions. Many offices issue a Surf Zone Forecast.
• Obey all instructions and orders from lifeguards. Lifeguards are trained to identify hazards.
• Know the meaning of and obey warnings represented by colored beach flags.
  Different beaches may use different colors but a commonly used series include:
  • Double Red: Beach is closed to the public
  • Single Red: high hazard, e.g., strong surf or currents
  • Yellow: medium hazard
  • Green: Calm conditions although caution is still necessary
  • Purple: Flown with either Red or Yellow: Dangerous marine life
• Stay at least 100 feet away from piers and jetties. Permanent rip currents often exist alongside these structures.                                               
• Pay especially close attention to children and persons who are elderly when at the beach. Even in shallow water, wave action can cause loss of footing.
• Be cautious. Always assume rip currents are present even if you don’t see them.

If caught in a rip current:

• DON’T PANIC. Remain calm to conserve energy and think clearly.
• NEVER swim against the rip. Stay afloat and signal for help.
• Swim out of the current in a direction following the shoreline. When out of the current, swim at an angle--away from the current--towards shore.
• If you are unable to swim out of the rip current, float or calmly tread water.
• Draw attention to yourself: face the shore, wave your arms, and yell for help.

If you see someone in trouble, don't become a victim too:

• Get help from a lifeguard or, if one is unavailable, have someone call 9-1-1.
• Throw the rip current victim something that floats--a lifejacket, a cooler, an inflatable ball.
• Yell instructions on how to escape.

Tips to Avoid Heat Exhaustion:

• Drink plenty of water. Your body needs water to keep cool. Drink plenty of fluids even if you don't feel thirsty. Persons who (1) have epilepsy or heart, kidney, or liver disease, (2) are on fluid restrictive diets, or (3) have a problem with fluid retention should consult a physician before increasing their consumption of fluids. Avoid alcoholic beverages.
• Never leave children or pets in a parked car. The temperature can raise to 135 degrees in less than ten minutes, which can cause death to children or pets. If you see a child or pet left unattended in a parked car, you should call 9-1-1 and alert authorities.

• Strenuous activities should be reduced, eliminated, or rescheduled to the coolest time of the day.  
• Dress for summer. Lightweight, light-colored clothing reflects heat and sunlight, and helps your body maintain normal temperatures.  
• Spend more time in air-conditioned places. Air conditioning in homes and other buildings markedly reduces danger from the heat. If you cannot afford an air conditioner, spend some time each day (during hot weather) in an air conditioned environment. 
• Don't get too much sun.  A sunburn makes the job of heat dissipation that much more difficult.

The 2012 Atlantic Hurricane Season began June 1 and continues through November 30. For more information on the Florida Division of Emergency Management and to GET A PLAN! visit www.FloridaDisaster.org. Follow us on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/FLSERT and on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/FloridaSERT.

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