Amica Press Releases

09.03.10

Hurricane Earl means dangerous waves and riptides along the East Coast

LINCOLN, RI – Forecasters are warning beach-goers of the potential for dangerous waves and rip tides along the East Coast for the next several days, as the result of Hurricane Earl.

Amica Insurance reminds everyone to be alert to the potential dangers and swim only at beaches with lifeguards and only in areas designated for swimming. Listen to the lifeguards’ warnings and watch for warning flags or other signs that may be posted if conditions deteriorate.

Remember, too, that rip tides or rip currents can form in any large open area of water, and they’re extremely dangerous because because they can pull even the strongest swimmers out to sea and away from the beach.

If you are caught in a rip current, the American Red Cross offers the following advice:

• Stay calm. Don’t fight the current.

• Swim parallel to shore until free of the current.

• Once free, turn and swim toward shore.

• If you don’t feel as though you can make it to shore, draw attention to yourself by waving and calling for help.

If you see someone struggling as a result of the waves or rip tides, notify the nearest lifeguard or contact 911. Meanwhile, throw the person something that floats – whether a life jacket, cooler or boogie board – that the person can hang onto until help arrives.

About Amica Mutual Insurance

Amica Mutual Insurance Company, the nation's oldest mutual insurer of automobiles, was founded in
1907. The company, with corporate headquarters in Lincoln, RI, is a national writer of automobile, homeowners, marine and personal umbrella liability insurance. Life coverage is available through Amica Life Insurance Company, a wholly owned subsidiary. Amica employs more than 3,200 people in 40 offices across the country.

CONTACT: Vince Burks, Corporate Communications, 50 Amica Way,
Lincoln, RI 02865-1155, 800-652-6422, ext. 24563

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