Three major types of dangerous ocean currents - rip currents, undertows, and rip tides - can pose serious risks to swimmers. Find out how to keep safe and manage if you get caught out.
These powerful flows are common along coastlines and can take even the most experienced swimmers by surprise. Knowing how each one behaves is essential for staying safe in the water.
Surfers are often familiar with these currents, as they frequently encounter them and sometimes even use them to navigate. But for the average beachgoer, recognizing the signs of these currents and understanding how to respond could be lifesaving.
Rip currents are narrow but powerful channels of water that flow away from the shore. These currents form when waves push water up the beach, creating excess water that eventually channels back to sea, often through gaps in sandbars.
Usually spanning tens of feet in width, rip currents can appear at several points along the beach and are often spotted in shallow, knee-to-waist-deep water. Once you’re in chest-deep water, walking against the current becomes nearly impossible. Rip currents weaken only after they pass the surf zone into deeper waters. Even moderate waves on sunny days can generate rip currents strong enough to carry swimmers away from shore.
Surviving a Rip Current: Swim parallel to the shoreline to break free from the current’s pull. Once clear, swim back to shore at an angle. Avoid fighting the current directly, as this can quickly exhaust you.
An undertow occurs when waves break on the shore, pushing water up the beach, which then flows back down in a strong backwash. When large waves break, this backwash pulls sand and water toward the next incoming wave, making beachgoers feel as though they are being dragged under.
Although an undertow can feel intense, it typically only extends a short distance and won’t pull you out into deep water. It can, however, pose a danger to small children who may struggle against the strong backwash. On days with larger waves, only experienced swimmers and surfers should venture out.
A rip tide, also called a tidal jet, is a strong current created by tidal flows through narrow channels, such as inlets between barrier islands. During ebb tide, water flows from the inlet toward the ocean; during flood tide, it flows in the opposite direction. Rip tides are particularly strong near jetties and other constricted areas, and they are well known among fishermen and boaters.
Rip tides can also form in narrow areas within bays or lagoons without wave action, where the tide pulls water through restricted channels. These strong tidal currents can transport sand and sediment, creating banks at the mouth of inlets.
Understanding these ocean currents can greatly improve your beach safety and confidence.
Ingredients
For the dressing
Recipe courtesy of Olivado - olivado.com
Strawberries are in abundance this summer so why not add some to your salads. Here’s a healthy and delicious strawberry salad recipe.
Ingredients
Dressing
Pour the olive oil, lemon juice, dijon mustard, and honey to a jar and shake it vigorously until it emulsifies.
Then, add in the salt, lemon zest, and poppyseeds and give it a good shake until mixed in.
Recipe courtesy of Liz Moody - lizmoody.com
Summer often brings visions of effortless beach waves, sun-kissed highlights, and flowing locks, but the reality is usually brittle, damaged, and lackluster hair.
If asked to describe your dream summer hair, most of us would envision natural highlights, a quick and easy routine, or long, beachy tresses. While these images are often seen in magazines, the harsh effects of sun, saltwater, chlorine, and humidity can leave us with dry, lifeless hair, split ends, and dullness - making that ideal summer hair feel out of reach. But with the right tools and care, you can keep your hair healthy and beautiful all season long.
Prevention is key, but knowing how to repair damage is just as important. Much like a friend who tells you the truth, moisturizing, replenishing, and protecting from heat are essential for keeping your hair in top shape.
The sun is one of your hair’s worst enemies in summer, with harmful UVA and UVB rays constantly attacking unprotected strands. The most effective way to protect your hair from sun damage is with heat protection. Solar protection creams for hair are available, and they can help you maintain that healthy shine.
If salon products aren’t your thing, you can make your own nourishing treatments at home. Here are four tried-and-tested deep conditioning recipes:
After each treatment, shampoo and condition as usual.
For those struggling with dullness or lack of shine, try these simple homemade methods to bring back the luster:
In addition to salon treatments, traditional tips and DIY remedies, here are some quick and easy ways to protect your hair this summer:
Summer is all about relaxation and enjoyment, so the last thing you want to worry about is your hair. Try these simple tips and techniques to keep your locks healthy and gorgeous all season long—no more bad hair days!
Planning a summer road trip? Here are some essential tips to help keep you safe on the road.
Spare Tyre Does your car have a regular tyre or a space-saver tyre? In the event of a puncture—especially if you’re towing—check your owner’s manual for guidance on which corner of the car to place the space-saver tyre. Once fitted, head straight to a tyre specialist for a proper repair or replacement. Space-saver tyres typically come with speed restrictions, and their tread is not as durable as a regular tyre.
Tyre Pressure and Tread While checking your spare, take a moment to inspect all four tyres. Start by ensuring they’re at the correct pressure (check when cold). Also, visually inspect your tyres for any nails, screws, or sidewall damage. Use a tread depth gauge (available at most dollar stores) to ensure your tyres meet the minimum tread depth of 1.5mm for driving on NZ roads. If you or someone else tends to “dry steer” (turning the wheel when the car is stationary), the outer 4-6cm of the front tyres may wear down faster than the rest.
Windscreen Wiper Bottle Sunlight often reveals how dirty your windscreen is, so don't wait until you're on the road to discover your washer bottle is empty. Fill it with high-quality windscreen wash to keep your visibility clear. While you’re at it, inspect your wiper blades for signs of wear, such as cracked rubber or missing pieces. Test the blades by running them during a wash to ensure they effectively clear water from the screen.
Fluid Levels While you're under the bonnet topping up the washer bottle, check other essential fluid levels, such as engine oil, coolant, power steering fluid, and brake fluid. Ensuring these fluids are at the correct levels can prevent overheating and other potential issues during your drive.
With a little preparation, you can enjoy a safer, smoother journey this summer!
As we bask in the warmth of summer, it's important to remember that the rising temperatures bring extra dangers for our pets. To ensure your dog, cat, or other furry companions stay safe and healthy this summer, follow these tips to prevent accidents and keep them protected.
Dehydration and Heat Stroke
Dehydration and heatstroke are serious threats during the hot summer months. Make sure your pet always has access to fresh water, no matter the season. Carry a portable water bowl during walks (many stores even sell affordable versions) and keep one in your car for longer trips.
Certain pets are more prone to heat stress, such as short-nosed breeds, dark-colored animals, overweight pets, or those with thick coats. Watch for these symptoms of dehydration or heatstroke:
• Excessive lethargy
• Reduced urination
• Dry gums
• Refusal to eat
• Sunken eyes
• Decreased skin elasticity (To check, gently pinch your pet's skin near the shoulder and release. If it doesn’t bounce back quickly, your pet may be dehydrated.)
While panting is normal for dogs to cool off, more extreme panting can indicate heat stress. To help cool them down, use fans, ice packs, frozen treats, or even a kiddie pool or sprinkler for playtime.
If you suspect your pet is dehydrated, cool them with a hose or wet towels and get them to a vet right away if they seem weak or unsteady.
Cars
Leaving pets in the car, even for a few minutes, can be deadly in hot weather. On warm days, the temperature inside a car can rise rapidly, causing heatstroke. Always take your pet with you when possible, or if you must leave them in the car, park in the shade with windows cracked. But remember, don’t leave them for long!
Bee Stings
Your pet’s curiosity can lead them to investigate buzzing bees, which might result in a sting. While a single sting may not be serious, watch for swelling and irritation. If swelling is extensive or your pet seems very agitated, contact your vet. Scratching at a sting site can cause “hot spots” or bald patches, which may require immediate attention.
Signs of a bee or wasp sting include:
• Mild to moderate symptoms: Swelling on the face, muzzle, or body, or hives.
• Severe symptoms: Difficulty breathing, severe hives, diarrhea, weakness, drooling, pale gums, cold limbs, or mental confusion.
Tarmac Heat
Just like humans, pets can suffer from burns on hot surfaces. If the ground feels too hot for you to walk barefoot, it's too hot for your pet’s paws. Limit walks on hot pavement and try to schedule outdoor activities during cooler times of the day.
Extra Fur
Summer grooming is key. Brush your pet regularly to remove excess or matted fur, which can lead to overheating. Depending on your pet's breed and climate, consider visiting a groomer to help them stay cool. However, avoid cutting their fur too short, as their coat provides protection from the sun.
Ticks
Ticks are small parasites that feed on your pet's blood. The best prevention is to stop them before they attach, but if your pet does get ticks, you’ll need a treatment to eliminate them. Always consult your vet for the most suitable product for your pet. If your dog shows signs of fatigue, fever, or limping, it could indicate a tick problem.
By staying mindful of these summer dangers and taking proactive steps, you can help ensure your pets have a safe, enjoyable summer!
While sunscreen is essential for protecting your skin during the warmer months, your eyes also need care. With more time spent outdoors in the summer, studies show that prolonged sun exposure can increase the risk of cataracts, age-related macular degeneration, and even eye cancers.
UV radiation, whether from the sun or artificial indoor sources, can harm the surface tissues, cornea, and lens of the eye. Many are unaware of the dangers UV light poses to eye health. However, by wearing UV-blocking sunglasses, you can lower your risk of developing serious eye conditions and still enjoy the summer. Protecting your eyes early in life helps prevent long-term damage from cumulative UV exposure.
Here are key tips to protect your eyes from the sun:
• Choose sunglasses that block UV rays: Don’t judge a pair by their color or price. UV protection isn’t determined by how dark the lenses are or their cost.
• Ensure full UVA and UVB coverage: Look for sunglasses that block 100% of both UVA and UVB rays.
• Go for wraparound styles: Sunglasses that wrap around to your temples provide extra protection, blocking UV rays from the sides.
• Add a hat for extra coverage: A broad-brimmed hat shields your eyes from additional sunlight.
• Don’t depend solely on contact lenses: Even if your contact lenses have UV protection, you should still wear sunglasses to fully safeguard your eyes.
• Don’t be fooled by cloudy skies: UV rays can penetrate through haze and thin clouds. Sun damage can happen any time of year, so wear sunglasses whenever you're outdoors.
• Avoid direct sun exposure: Looking directly at the sun, especially during an eclipse, can cause permanent eye damage, including solar retinopathy.
• Be mindful during peak sun hours: UV rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. If you need to be outside, make sure to wear sunglasses and a hat for extra protection.
• Protect everyone in the family: UV damage affects people of all ages, so be sure to protect the eyes of children and seniors, too.
Enjoy the summer sun, but remember to safeguard your eyes while you’re outdoors!