Coast Guard cautions public of dangerous rip currents at San Luis Pass

Media Advisory

August 18, 2017 U.S. Coast Guard 8th District Public Affairs Detachment Texas Contact: 8th District Public Affairs Detachment Texas Office: (281) 464-4810 After Hours: (832) 293-1293

Coast Guard cautions public of dangerous rip currents at San Luis Pass

HOUSTON, Texas — The Coast Guard is cautioning beachgoers of the dangerous rip currents at San Luis Pass that claimed the lives of four people in the last several weeks and five others this year.

In an effort to prevent further loss of life, the Brazoria County Commissioner's Court has voted to prohibit visitors from entering the waters of San Luis Pass for any activity, including bathing, fishing and swimming beginning Aug. 18, 2017.

Over the past several weeks, the Coast Guard, Galveston Beach Patrol, Brazoria County Sheriff and Gulf Coast Rescue have received notifications and conducted extensive search and rescue efforts for individuals who were overcome by treacherous rip currents in the area.

The Coast Guard and American Red Cross offer the following safety tips for beachgoers:

- Only swim in designated areas, preferably where lifeguards are stationed and follow the instructions of local authorities.

- Never swim alone.

- If caught in a rip current, remain calm and don't fight the current.  Instead, swim parallel to the shore and swim towards the shore only after out of the current.

- Seek help if someone is caught in a rip current. Throw them a floatation device or give them instructions on how to escape. Remember, many people drown while attempting to rescue someone else from a rip current.

- Never operate a vessel under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

- Always follow navigational rules when operating watercraft.

- Ensure that there are enough life jackets (PFDs) for everyone aboard the vessel.

For more information, questions or comments contact Sector Houston-Galveston Command Center at (281) 464-4853.

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