Swim near a lifeguard. If caught in a rip current, relax and float. Don't swim against the current. If able, swim in a direction following the shoreline. If unable to escape, face the shore and call or wave for help.

* WHAT...Dangerous rip currents expected. * WHERE...Bay County Beaches. * WHEN...Through late Friday night. * IMPACTS...Rip currents can sweep even the best swimmers away from shore into deeper water. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS....Morning collaboration with the Bay County Beach Safety Director and anticipated increase in hazardous conditions later this afternoon into the weekend despite favorable weather, it was decided to issue a pre-emptive Rip Current Statement.