What is the best thing to do if you are stuck in a rip?

If you find yourself stuck in a rip current, the best thing to do is to remain calm and conserve your energy. Rather than trying to swim directly back to shore against the current, swim parallel to the shoreline until you're out of the current's grip. Once you're free, you can then swim back to the beach at an angle, or signal for help if needed. Always prioritize safety by keeping an eye on the water conditions and knowing how to identify rip currents before entering the water.