High risk for rip currents

The Duluth Fire Department issued a warning for dangerous swimming conditions for Park Point beaches effective Saturday and continuing until 10:00 a.m. Sunday. Strong winds in the Twin Ports could result in waves supporting rip current conditions.

Red flags are flying along the beach to indicate dangerous swimming conditions. The Duluth Fire Department strongly advises the public to stay out of the water, regardless of their swimming ability.

Rip currents are life-threatening to anyone entering the water. Officials say even calm waters after storm activity can support rip currents, so beach-goers should wait for the warning to expire before going into the water.

Flag locations are: South Pier (South of Lift Bridge), 12th St beach, Lafayette Park, and two locations at Park Point beach. The Duluth Fire Department will update this notice if swimming conditions improve before this warning expires.

The National Weather Service has some tips to understand Rip Currents. If you are caught in a rip current, you should relax. Rip currents will not pull you under the water, it will pull you further from shore. Do not try to swim against the current, instead swim in a direction following the shoreline. If you are unable to swim out of the rip current, float or tread water. If you are unable to reach shore, draw attention to yourself by yelling or wave for assistance.

If you see anyone struggling, officials urge you to call 911. Try to direct the victim to swim following the shoreline. If possible throw the victim something that floats. Do not enter the water.

More information on conditions and rip currents can be found by visiting the Park Point Beach website
at www.parkpointbeach.org.