Living here in Florida for the last 7+ years I have heard of so many drownings that take place in the Gulf because of rip currents and people swimming when there's a red flag. Remember, NEVER get in the water when there's a red flag flying. There's a reason and it's because people DIE. Families come to the beach on vacation and have to go home without their loved ones. If you are caught in a rip current and feel it pulling you away from shore, don't panic. Try to stay calm and swim parallel to the shore until you not longer feel it pulling you away from the beach. Then make your way back to the beach. If you fight it, you will get tired and drown.
Here's some more tips that can save your life. Please be safe out there!