High Surf Advisories Tonight through Saturday at Laguna Beach, OC Beaches

The National Weather Service has issued a Beach Hazards Statement along southern California coastlines until late tonight, followed by a more serious high surf advisory, which will be in effect from 5 a.m. Friday until 5 p.m,. Saturday.

"There's a strong swell out of the south for the next four to five days," stated Laguna Beach Marine Safety Lt. Kai Bond. "We have yellow flag conditions and recommend all beach goers swim in front of a lifeguard."

Bond also recommended that swimmers should wear two fins, and be at a high experience level for these conditions.

"Watch out for rip currents," he advised. "Any time there is large surf, it's usually paired with strong rip currents."

READ SAFETY TIPS AT THE BOTTOM OF THIS REPORT

According to the NWS forecast, surf will be between 3 and 6 feet today, and between 5 and 7 feet Saturday, with sets of 8 feet possible, and strong rip currents expected.

"Beach goers are advised to swim near lifeguard stations, to never swim alone, and, if caught in a rip current, to swim parallel to shore until able to break free," the National Weather Service report stated. Forecasters also warned of sneaker waves able to wash people off rocks and jetties.

"We have rescues every day, and expect more during warm weather," Bond said. "With an increase in surf, and warmer water, it's always good to use your best judgement and know your limitations when swimming in the ocean."

How to identify a rip current:

• A channel of churning, choppy water

• An area having a notable difference in color, parallel to the shoreline

• A line of foam, seaweed, or debris moving steadily out to sea

• A break in the incoming wave pattern

How to survive a rip current:

• Remain calm.
• Don’t fight the current. Swim out of the current by swimming to the side.
• If you can’t escape, float or tread water.
• If you need help, call or wave for assistance.

For your safety, beware of hazards.

• If in doubt, don’t go out. Ask the lifeguard about rip currents and other known water hazards.
• Obey posted warning signs and flags.
• Check weather, water, and surf conditions; storms can stir up bacteria, rip currents, and other dangers.
• Shuffle feet when walking into the water to prevent stingray injuries.

Children and adults drown without a sound.

• Keep small children and inexperienced swimmers within reach. Flotation devices are not a substitute for active adult supervision.
• Learn to swim.
• Use boogie boards/surfboards with leashes in designated areas.
• Choose to swim near a lifeguard and never swim alone. If no one is with you, no one can help save you.

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