The California State Lifeguards just released a video compilation of some of the water rescues they performed over a two day period, and to be perfectly honest, it's pretty intense.

Although the clip only shows a few rescues, the lifeguards saved a total of over 470 people at a single location, Huntington Beach, within two days. If that seems like a lot to you, you're not alone.

So in preparation for the holiday weekend, here are some things to remember before you go for a dip in the ocean.

Know how to swim.

This might seem obvious, but a study conducted by the CDC found that 37% of Americans can't swim more than 24 yards. If you're one of those people, realize the ocean is longer than 24 yards before you decide to try to swim.

Swim with a friend.

The chance of drowning significantly increases if you aren't near a lifeguard. If you aren't near anyone, no one can see you -- and that's really bad. Swim near a friend or family member in case the waves aren't your friend that day.

Don't panic if the tide takes you out.

When a rip current takes you out, it's safest to let it do its thing as you swim parallel to the shore. Once it dissipates, you can either wait for a lifeguard to get you or swim back towards shore. But again, don't panic.

Watch the full safety video, with 10 tips for being safe this holiday weekend, on the California State Lifeguard's Facebook page.

H/T Pixable