Rip current warning at area beaches ahead of Labor Day weekend

BELMAR, New Jersey (WABC) -- A danger lurking at the shore could pose issues for beachgoers ahead of the Labor Day holiday weekend, and lifeguards are warning swimmers to be aware of rip currents.

Distant storms are making for dangerous surf all along our coastline, and even though powerful Hurricane Gaston is more than 1,000 miles away, it is still sending big waves in our direction.

Surfers might rejoice, but with the waves comes a high risk of rip currents throughout the week at area beaches.

Paul Gillespie is the chief lifeguard in Long Beach, and he says even the strongest swimmers are no match for a rip current.

Often lost among the inviting sand and calming blue waves is a warning that far too many people fail to heed. And that has been keeping lifeguards busy. Those with little ones say they're especially careful, even along the shoreline. Meanwhile, others who like to venture further out admit they've felt a stronger undertow lately.

Experts say that if you get caught in a rip current, don't panic. Let it pull you out, then swim parallel to the shore until help can get to you. Always check with lifeguards and check to see if there are red flags. Lifeguards warn you can never be too careful.