4. Tread Water or Float
If you are unable to swim out of the current parallel to the beach, preserve your energy. Float on your back or tread water calmly. Rip currents eventually weaken and dissipate past the surf zone. Once the current eases, you can swim back at an angle away from the rip.
5. Signal for Help
If you realize you cannot reach the shore on your own, draw attention to yourself immediately. Face the shore, wave your arms, and yell loudly for assistance from lifeguards or bystanders on the beach.
Guidelines for Bystanders and Rescuers
When someone sees a loved one or a stranger struggling in the water, the natural instinct is to jump in immediately—just as Fred Pepperman did. However, water safety experts emphasize that untrained bystander rescues carry an extremely high risk of double drowning.
The United States Lifesaving Association (USLA) recommends following the "Preach, Reach, Throw, Go" framework whenever possible:
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Preach: Shout instructions to the person in distress. Remind them to keep calm, float on their back, and swim parallel to the beach.
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Reach: If the victim is close to a structure or shallow area, extend a long object—such as a pole, branch, or towel—to pull them in without entering deep water.
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Throw: Throw a flotation device to the person. This can be a life ring, a bodyboard, a cooler, or any item that floats. Giving the victim something to hold onto prevents them from exhausting themselves while waiting for professional help.
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Go: Entering the water to perform a rescue should always be the absolute last resort. If you must go, always bring a flotation device with you (like a surfboard or life jacket) to keep both yourself and the victim afloat.
A Legacy of Selfless Love
The story of Fred Pepperman is heartbreaking, but it is also a powerful demonstration of the boundless extent of a parent's devotion. When faced with an unthinkable crisis, his instincts were entirely focused on the safety and well-being of his children.
In the face of extreme danger, Fred Pepperman delivered on the most fundamental promise a parent can make. His final words—"I got you"—stand as a heroic reminder of courage, sacrifice, and an enduring love that defied even the power of the ocean.
Reliable Sources & Further Reading
For those seeking to learn more about coastal safety, rip current dynamics, and official statistics, the following organizations provide comprehensive guides and safety research:
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National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA):
noaa.gov/jetstream/ocean/rip-currents -
United States Lifesaving Association (USLA):
usla.org/page/RIPCURRENTS -
National Park Service (NPS):
nps.gov/articles/rip-currents.htm