That's a lie that people tell themselves. It is fairly safe at most public beaches if: * you follow the posted signs for rules (e.g. where it's safe to dive, s

That's a lie that people tell themselves. It is fairly safe at most public beaches if: * you follow the posted signs for rules (e.g. where it's safe to dive, staying in marked areas), flags for current conditions * pay attention to weather conditions * know (roughly) when and how much of a change the tide will bring Unfortunately, a significant number of people don't follow the rules, or underestimate the risk. There is a reason many public beaches located within an urban center have lifeguards and patrols.