Body Of Missing Florida Boy Washes Ashore

September 28, 2009 7:48 p.m. EST

Ormond-by-the-Sea, FL (AHN) - Volusia County Beach Patrol officials have confirmed that the body that washed ashore in Ormond-by-the-Sea Sunday was that of a teenager who missing after being caught in rip currents Saturday.

Brandon Martin, 16 swam n an area where there were no lifeguards and was carried away by rip currents, according to his girlfriend.

County lifeguards searched for the teenager for hours to no avail.

Meanwhile, the patrol warned swimmers to be careful because of strong rip currents that will last in the next several days.

The patrol has rescued more than two dozen swimmers from rip currents on Sunday alone.

Rip currents are the leading surf area hazard beach swimmers  and are especially dangerous for weak, inexperiance or non-swimmers.

Rip Current Survival and Safety Tips:

• Never swim alone.
• Be aware and cautious at all times, especially when swimming at unguarded beaches. "If in doubt, don't go out!"
• Whenever possible, swim at a lifeguard protected beach.
• Obey all instructions and orders from lifeguards.
• If caught in a rip current, remain calm to conserve energy and think clearly.
• Don't fight the current. Swim out of the current i in a directon parrelel to the shoreline. When out of the current, swim towards shore.
• If you are unable to swim out of the rip current, float or calmly tread water. When out of the current, swim towards shore.
• If you are still unable to reach shore, draw attention to yourself: face the shore, wave your arms, and yell for help.
• If you see someone in trouble, get help from a lifeguard. If a lifeguard is not available, have someone call 9-1-1 .
• Throw the rip current victim something that floats and yell instructions on how to escape.
• Remember, many people drown while trying to save someone else from a rip current. (Tips courtesy of the National Weather Service)