There was a series of drownings. Here’s what to do if you get caught in a rip current

A series of recent drownings caused by rip currents on beaches packed with summer revelers have raised concerns about the potentially deadly natural phenomenon.

In Florida, a Pennsylvania couple who was vacationing with their six children drowned after being caught in a rip current swimming at Stuart Beach on Thursday. Three Alabama men drowned Friday after being caught in a rip current in Panama City Beach, Florida. In the opposite corner of the East Coast, two teenagers disappeared into the water at Jacob Riis Park Beach in Queens, New York, last seen being caught by a huge wave on Friday.

Here’s how to stay safe in dangerous rip currents.

What is a rip current?

Rip currents are strong, fast currents that move away from shore. They usually extend from the shore beyond the breaking wave line, and can occur on any beach with waves, including large lakes, according to the American Red Cross.

They move perpendicular to the shore. They typically move 1 to 2 feet per second, but some have been measured at 8 feet per second — faster than an Olympic swimmer can sprint, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or NOAA.

As a result, a person caught in a rip current can be swept away from shore extremely quickly.

Rip currents account for more than 80 percent of rescues performed by surf beach lifeguards, according to an estimate by the United States Life Saving Association.

Rip currents are often confused with rip tides. However, they are different. According to NOAA, a rip tide is a type of current that accompanies the movement of tidal water through creeks and estuary mouths, embayments and harbors.

What to do if you get caught in a rip current

First of all, don’t panic. Signal ashore for assistance.

Swim parallel to the shore, rather than towards it, until you are out of the current. NOAA notes that most rip currents are less than 80 feet wide. Once free of the current, turn and swim back to shore.

Alternatively, you can let the current carry you as you float or walk on water until the force weakens. Rip currents generally dissipate beyond the breaking wave line, NOAA said. Then, once out of the current, swim to shore.

How to Help Someone Caught in a Rip Current

If you see someone in difficulty, ask for help from a rescuer. If no rescuer is available, have someone call 911.

If you see someone in a rip current, toss the victim something that floats and shout instructions on how to escape the current.

“It is important to be aware that people can drown while trying to save someone else from a rip current,” the Red Cross warned.

Swimmers should also stay at least 100 feet away from piers and piers, as permanent rip currents often exist near these structures, according to the Red Cross.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com