General Surf Safety Points

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Published on Sunday, 31 July 2011 22:39

It's really important to have a basic understanding of all the safety elements associated with surfing before getting in the water. It's an all too common occurrence to have inexperienced surfers pulled from the water by lifeguards. The ocean can be a dangerous place even for the most experienced of people and it's a sad fact but every year we hear of surfers losing their lives to the sea. 

• Before you enter the water always think safety.
• Never surf alone.
• Only surf if you can swim.
• Get proper instruction.
• Do not enter the water too close to dusk.
• Check with local people or lifeguards for possible hazards.
• Only surf waves of a size and power suitable to your ability - do not get too confident.
• Make sure your equipment is in good order, especially your leash.
• Learn to identify rips, wind changes and other hazards.
• Paddle around the breaking waves not through them to avoid collisions.
• When paddling out always check behind you before abandoning your board - consider other water users.
• After a wipe out do not surface too soon, allow your board to land and come up with your hands over your head.
• Consider using a helmet if surfing near rocks.
• If you get caught in a rip do not try to paddle against it - - paddle across it.
• If you get into difficulty always stay with your board - it is your flotation device.
• Never drop in on another surfer already on a wave.