A rip current is a powerful, narrow channel of water that flows away from the shore. It forms when waves break over sandbars or near the beach, creating a strong current that pulls water back into the ocean. Rip currents can be dangerous for swimmers, as they can quickly carry them away from the safety of the shore. To identify a rip current, look for differences in water color, choppy waves, or foam moving seaward. If caught in a rip current, it is important to stay calm and swim parallel to the shore until free from the current, then swim back to the beach.