Surfing is an excellent activity for those looking for an adrenaline rush. Currently, there are about 18 million surfers of all age groups globally. The number is relatively high because it is considered a safer activity with a low risk of injury.
When done right, it’s exhilarating as you ride the waves. However, it is essential to note that the ocean is no man’s play. If you are planning to go surfing, making sure that you prioritise your safety is paramount. This calls for understanding the ocean’s behaviour, including the tides, wave patterns, and currents, for a safe and enjoyable moment.
In this surfing safety guide, we take you through various safety tips and techniques that are beginner-friendly and will come in handy as you navigate the waters. Let’s get started on how to surf safely.
Surf Etiquette and Techniques
Understanding and implementing surfing etiquette is paramount for a safe surfing session. Some of the surf etiquette and techniques you should adhere to include
- Respecting Other Surfer’s Space: You must understand that the ocean is a shared playground. Therefore, respecting the space you share with other surfers for a toned surfing session is essential.
- Avoid Dropping In: This mainly occurs when someone else is surfing the wave and another surfer takes off before them, blocking them. Well, you want to avoid this and instead paddle for a wave next to the person if they do not take it after some time of checking.
- Avoid Snaking: Snacking happens when paddling past someone to place yourself closer to the peak. This can make the person initially closest to the peak drop in, leaving you annoyed.
- Do Not Hog the Waves: You may be in a situation where you paddle far outside and catch the waves first every time you reach the lineup. Well, this need not be done and will quickly annoy those you are surfing with; therefore, they may start dropping in, resulting in chaos.
- Surf at Your Suitable Spots: Do more than just go surfing everywhere, especially if the spot is above your ability range. Doing this only upsets other surfers and poses a potential hazard for everyone.
Equipment Safety
Equipment safety is vital when surfing. This ensures you have a fun and injury-free experience, especially if you are a beginner at surfing.
Here are the top equipment safety procedures that you should check out and implement if you are a
Use a Leash to Attach Yourself
Using a leash when attaching to a surfboard is important. It helps prevent the surfboard from drifting away. Additionally, it keeps you safe from being hit by the surfboard.
Regular Inspection of the Surfboard
Before you embark on surfing, inspect your surfboard for cracks, dents and loose fins. These are small things that, when ignored, could cause accidents.
Invest in a Proper Wetsuit
You do not just go surfing with any clothes. Ensure that you invest in a comfortable and well-fitting wetsuit. It should be in tip-top condition to protect you from cold water and potential cuts.
Use a Proper Surf Wax
A good surf wax helps maintain traction on the surfboard. This will, in return, reduce the risk of slipping off.
Emergency Procedure
Let’s face it – challenging situations are hard to evade when surfing. Therefore, seasonal and beginner surfers must equip themselves with excellent emergency procedure techniques. These will help them manoeuvre such situations with a lot of ease. Some of these emergency procedures include:
Reacting to Rip Currents and How to Escape Safely
Rip currents usually refer to long, narrow bands of water that tend to pull swimmers away from the shore. Rip currents often happen and are the leading cause of death in most ocean accidents. So, how do you deal with a rip current?
Try to remain calm so you are better positioned to get out of the situation. Keeping calm conserves energy and lets you think clearly about the next step. Then, float on water until you can swim out of the current.
If you feel things are getting out of hand and your swimming techniques might not be as helpful, call for help. Remember, when swimming, always do so parallel to the shore to escape the current and then swim back to safety at an angle.
Dealing with Injuries (Cuts, Bruises, Sprains etc) in the Water
Incidents of injuries can happen when you least expect them. Surfing comes with many numbers if you are not careful, and you need to deduce ways to deal with them. You need to be equipped with a first aid kit with all the necessary equipment to help care for water injuries. Your first aid kit should include the following tools:
- Bandages are essential for dealing with little water injuries that do not need full dressing. Here, we are talking about cuts from surfboard fins and blisters due to prolonged rubbing against the surfboard.
- Antiseptic wipes: As you surf, you might accidentally step on a sea urchin, leading to puncture wounds. You may also suffer from scrapes and cuts when you surf on rocky spots. In such scenarios, antiseptic wipes help cleanse the wounds and prevent infection.
- Adhesive waterproof dressings: Prolonged friction from rubbing against the surfboard can lead to blisters forming on the hand and feet. Also, you may encounter deep cuts due to contact with the surfboard, rocks and other submerged objects. Such will require closure and protection for better healing. Adhesive waterproof dressing can seal such wounds, keeping them protected from water and reducing the risk of infection.
- CPR face shield: A CPR face shield is a must-have for anyone who intends to surf. It comes through during instances such as drowning, cardiac events and in case a surfer encounters respiratory distress from inhaling water.
Knowing When and How to Signal for Help
When surfing, sometimes you might encounter a difficult situation and swimming out of it is not an option. If you find yourself in trouble, raise one arm above your head and wave it vigorously to attract the attention of those nearby who can help.
Also, you can use a distress signal by extending both arms overhead in an X shape. Effectively signalling for help will ensure a prompt response from lifeguards and fellow surfers, preventing dangerous situations from escalating. Also, learn and follow the system of flags and signs to ensure a safe surfing experience.
Understanding Beach Rescue Protocols and Contacting Lifeguards or Emergency Services
Facing a difficult situation when surfing can cause panic, and people will fear for their lives, making the situation highly dangerous. If you ever find yourself in a tricky situation when surfing, first ensure you remain calm and understand the severity of the action you might want to take.
Make an informed judgement and develop a plan to sustain you until you get out of the situation or get someone to help you. If you feel that getting out of the situation will be hard, contact lifeguards or emergency services near you for help. Remember, remaining calm and taking quick action is paramount to save your life.
Conclusion
Surfing is a thrilling sport enjoyed by millions around the world. However, safety should be your first consideration if you engage in this activity. Follow the beginner surfer safety tips and techniques to enjoy the waves while minimising possible risks.
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