Emergency services perform rescue on two swimmers stuck in rip at a Kilcunda beach

Emergency services have rescued two swimmers after they were caught in a rip at a Kilcunda beach.

Two swimmers have been rescued off Bass Coast after they were caught in a rip. Picture: Supplied

Two swimmers have been rescued off Bass Coast after they were caught in a rip.

Emergency services were called to Nyora-Wonthaggi Rail Trail in Kilcunda at 1.34pm on Friday.

“Two people were caught in a rip but are now okay,” a police spokesperson said.

An Ambulance Victoria spokesperson said no emergency treatment or transport was required.

Life Saving Victoria is advises all swimmers to be careful during the Christmas holidays.

“It’s important to stay calm if you find yourself caught in a rip,” a Life Saving Victoria spokesperson said.

“Raise an arm to seek help, float with the current until it releases you and swim parallel to the shore or towards breaking waves and use them to help you in.

“Swimming between the flags at a beach patrolled by lifesavers can help you avoid rip currents, as well as ensuring someone can help you if you get into trouble.”

The spokesperson said three out of four people couldn’t identify a rip, despite them being the number one hazard on the Australia coast.

“It’s important to learn how to identify rip currents and always look for them before deciding where to swim,” the spokesperson added.

On average, 19 people drown in Australia every year due to rip currents.