rips

An under tow is a current at the beach that pulls whatever is on top of the water down to the ocean floor or further out.
To get out: do not swim towards the shore. Although it seems logical you will not be able to reach it. Swimmers fight that current, get tired, then go under. The best way to get out of an undertow is to swim parallel to the coastline for a bit until you feel that you are out. Conserve your energy is the name of the game.
To spot: an undertow before you get in the water just look for brown, sandy water that is churning up; determine the strength of it and how deep it is and dont go near it unless you have something to float on.
The beach is incredible and fun especially when it applies to life; when you feel like you are being pulled under the water, drop your pride and swim in a different direction to get out of that undertow of life.