Panic - a killer in danger tides

Surf lifesaver Lindsay Hil

Knowing how to recognise a rip and get out of it could save your life.

It has been a tragic summer in New Zealand waters, with eight drownings since Christmas Day. The deaths have occurred at beaches, in rivers and also in a family swimming pool in the Auckland suburb of Manurewa.

Strong rips have kept lifeguards busy at popular holiday destinations, such as Hot Water Beach, Piha and Raglan, which Dorothee Lampe from Surf Life Saving New Zealand said were our most dangerous beaches.

Swimming near rocks was also dangerous as water going back out to sea was drawn to them.

Knowing how to recognise a rip and what to do if caught in one increased survival chances, she said.

"We tell people not to panic. Rips pull you out but they do not pull you under. There is no undertow."

Floating on your back and putting an arm up in the air to get attention was recommended. If not exhausted, swimming to the side and out of the rip and trying to catch a wave to shore was an option.

Lampe warned that many people trying to save those caught in a rip drowned. She said it was safer, if possible, to throw a floating object to the person, call 111 and ask for police.