Effect of a Short-Term Training Program on Knowledge of Rip Currents: A Study with University Students

Drowning is considered a global public health problem, and rip currents are responsible for numerous emergencies on beaches worldwide. The literature indicates a significant lack of knowledge and training among the population regarding rip currents and aquatic safety. The purpose of this study was to examine whether a training program on aquatic safety education can help prevent drownings and enhance knowledge about rip currents. A total of 93 university students completed a 60 min training program led by lifeguard instructors. A questionnaire focused on sea safety content, specifically on rip currents, was administered in three different phases: before the educational session (PT), one week after (T1), and eight weeks after the training (T2). Before the training, 34.4% of the participants had difficulties identifying the correct swimming zone (zones 1, 7, and 8). However, after the training, this percentage significantly increased to 84.9% at T1 and 79.6% at T2. Significant differences were also observed in the four variables analyzed: selection of the swimming zone (x2 = 24.143; p < 0.001), definition (x2 = 47.643; p < 0.001), identification (x2 = 95.051; p < 0.001), and response to a rip current (x2 = 21.918; p < 0.001). A 60 min training session can have a positive effect and significantly increase knowledge on how to define, identify, and respond to a situation involving rip currents. These findings reinforce the value of training, providing a solid foundation for drowning prevention.