South Carolina man dies after being caught in rip current just south of Bethune Beach, NSB
A 54-year-old South Carolina man died Friday after he was caught in a rip current in New Smyrna Beach, according to a press release from Volusia County Beach Safety.
The man went swimming in an unguarded area in the 6000 block of South Atlantic Avenue south of Pompano Avenue, according to the release. He was reported missing a little after 1:30 p.m.
This was the ninth drowning this year on Volusia beaches, according to beach safety.
The man's co-worker saw him struggling in the rip current and tried to rescue him, but was unable to, the release stated.
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The man was missing for about 90 minutes to two hours before officials using a rescue ski located him in the surf, the release stated.
Volusia County Beach Safety, New Smyrna Beach Fire Rescue and Volusia County Fire Rescue worked to save the man's life, but he did not survive, according to the release.
The man's name was not released pending family notification.
If you are caught in a rip current
Rip currents are channels of fast-moving water that can pull even the most experienced swimmers from shore, beach officials said. Here's what to do if you find yourself caught in one:
- Remain calm and do not fight the current. Swim parallel to the shore until you are out of the current and then swim to the shore.
- If you are unable to swim out of the current, calmly float or tread water.
- If you are unable to reach shore, draw attention to yourself by waving or yelling for help.
- If you see someone in trouble, don't become a victim, too. Throw the person something that floats.
- Get help from a lifeguard or call 911.
Source: Volusia County Beach Safety