State Representative Todd Ames Hunter announced on March 30 that April is recognized as Beach Safety and Rip Current Awareness Month. The designation aims to educate the public about the dangers of rip currents and promote safe practices at beaches.
Hunter said he introduced House Concurrent Resolution 46 during the 87th Regular Legislative Session to officially designate April for this purpose. He stated, “The purpose of this month is to raise awareness of rip currents and beach safety. I want to take this opportunity to educate and spread awareness about beach safety.”
According to Hunter, rip currents are strong water channels that can quickly pull swimmers away from shore, with speeds ranging from one to eight feet per second. He advised people not to fight a current if caught in one but instead swim parallel to the shore or float until help arrives. The use of flag warning systems was also emphasized: red flags signal hazardous conditions, yellow flags mean moderate hazards, green flags indicate safer waters, blue flags warn of marine life presence, and orange flags point out environmental threats such as high bacteria levels.
Hunter highlighted legislation he introduced in memory of Je’Sani Smith—a King High School student—requiring signs and lifeguards at structures extending into the Gulf of Mexico on public beaches. He noted that “in Je’Sani’s memory, his parents… created the Je’Sani Smith Foundation to carry their son’s legacy and spread the message about the dangers of coastal hazards with the intention of saving lives.” The foundation provides education on beach safety and water skills training.
Hunter represents District 32, which covers parts of Nueces County according to the official website. He engages with community residents by offering constituent services according to the official website, maintains offices in Austin and Corpus Christi according to the official website, sponsors legislation, participates in committee work according to the official website, chairs the House Committee on State Affairs, serves on Calendars according to the official website, and influences state affairs through these roles according to the official website.
For more information about rip currents or local flag warning systems, Hunter encouraged visiting resources such as those provided by national weather services or local authorities.
