TYBEE ISLAND, Ga. () — High tides and rip currents are something to watch out for if you’re planning to spend some time on Tybee this weekend.

But what exactly do you do if you find yourself caught in a fast-moving current?

Stay calm and swim parallel to the shore. If you’re afraid, don’t fight the current; instead tread water and allow the current to take you out.

If you find yourself having problems staying afloat, wave your hands to get the attention of a lifeguard or someone who can get you help. Stay 50 yards from shore if you are going to swim and stay 150 feet away from the pier.

If you’re unsure of the water conditions, find a lifeguard stand and look at the flag colors.

“Our rip currents change positions frequently,” said Jennifer Bishop, Tybee lifeguard supervisor. “So, it’s really going to vary tower to tower if there are rip currents spotted in the area, we will usually start with a yellow flag if they’re moderate strength. If they’re severe, we will move up to red or double red.”

Lifeguard Asher Keeny said, “It’s really important to know how to identify rip currents out here. You’re going to want to look for narrow channels of foam or bubble sometimes or maybe debris in there as well, getting sucked out to sea. That should be a clear sign of a current.”

If there is lightning detected within 12 miles, lifeguards will clear the water. You’re allowed to stay on the sand, but you won’t be able to get back into the water until 30 minutes after the last lightning bolt is detected.

There are four lifeguard stands throughout the beach, and they recommend that if you’re not the strongest swimmer or if you have little ones, to stay in eyesight of one.