Beachgoers Beware: Risk Of Rip Currents In NYC, Long Island

WANTAGH, N.Y. (CBSNewYork) -- Despite the picture perfect weather this weekend, there's an important warning for beachgoers.

Friday night's full moon coupled with strong winds are causing higher tides and stronger currents, raising the risk of a rip current.

As CBS2's Jessica Borg reported, the sunset was a big draw for people on Jones Beach. At 8:30 p.m., some were still taking to the sand.

"It was fantastic. Even though it's a little chilly, I decided to go in the water," Slavik Litvinenko, of Brooklyn, told Borg.

But there were red flags in place to warn people about the risk. Diana Acosta, of the Bronx, was caught in one Saturday.

"I got submerged and ended up losing one of my shoes," she said.

Experts say if you are in shallow water and feel the pull, you should get out immediately.

"I would be very, very careful. I think the young people are little daredevils, but I think you have to take it very seriously," beachgoer Lynn Sevan said.

If you get caught, try not to panic. Experts say you should swim parallel to the shoreline, not directly back to shore. You should also try to get a lifeguard's attention and conserve your energy.

"I saw one guy -- I don't know if he was scared, but he went a little too far into the water, so they brought him back," beachgoer Santiago Castro said.

If you get tired, float on your back or tread water.