Temperatures are finally up, the sun is hot, and COVID restrictions are due to start relaxing soon here in New Zealand. It is a perfect recipe for a summer of crowded beaches.
Rip currents are some of the most dangerous aspects of beaches in New Zealand, and around the world. And, if you thought that you had a good understanding of rips, it may be worth giving them a second look. In a recent document on rip currents, Dr. Robert Brander offers new perspectives about rip currents based on the latest research.
In this special Water Safety Month episode of Diversity in Aquatics, I am joined by Dr. Brander, as well as Chris Emmett and Andy Kent of Surf Life Saving New Zealand. Together, we discuss how our understanding of rips is changing, and what that means for both beach-goers and the Surf Life Savers who help keep them safe.
0:00 - Introduction
2:55 - Dr. Brander and his rip journey
7:03 - A New Zealand perspective on rips and beach safety
18:30 - History of Surf Life Saving was about saving immigrants
22:04 - Impact and evolution of the Surf Life Saving
26:46 - Changing demographics and ability to 'swim'
29:38 - New understandings of the water and how rips work
35:26 - Panic is the enemy
39:03 - Moving forward with beach safety and patroling
43:55 - Closing thoughts
Rip Current Rescue - the documentary
Learn more about rips at The Science of Surf
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This video was edited by Budget Boy Films
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