Surfing is probably the most popular sports in the world. It offers great challenges and even bigger rewards when you manage to ride the waves. It can be lots of fun when you have the right information.
It’s also one of the more dangerous, with surfers continuously in danger of drowning or being injured by tidal currents and sharks. But there are some easy things every surfer can do to stay safe. Here are six essential tips every surfer should know:
Never Surf Alone
This is important in general but particularly important when you’re in shark territory. If there is no one you want to go out with, do not go or better yet do not go too far. It’s not worth the risk of being the only person in the water. Also, it isn’t safe to surf alone.
In an emergency, ensure there’s someone who can call for help, or at least try to get a cellular phone signal if you have one. Even in safe areas, many surfers carry personal safety gear designed to signal the presence of sharks and send lifeguards to their location so they can come and rescue them.
Have a surfing partner. That may sound reasonable, but you’d be surprised how many people do not take this easy precaution. Both of you must use proper surf equipment. Search where you can see js surfboards for sale or other recommendation boards. Your safety is important so you should never surf alone. Also, avoid surfing with inexperienced people as much as possible as this can slow you down and cause problems for both of you.
Learn Basic First Aid
Being a surfer requires lots of time in the water. If you spend enough time surfing, accidents will occur, and knowing what to do when they do can make a big difference. That’s why you need to take some basic first aid training.
Also, take care of one another while surfing. Watch out for sharks and tidal currents, do not go too far from shore or push yourself too far, at all times swim with others when conditions permit, etc.
Don’t surf under the influence of alcohol or drugs
This is an apparent one. Not only can you get yourself in trouble, but you can even harm others if you lose your coordination after drinking or doing drugs. You may seem invincible on land but not in the ocean where even a small accident can cause serious injury.
Always bear in mind of your limits and avoid any activity that could put your life at risk. Also, never swim or surf if you’re tired or injured. This is when accidents are most certainly to occur, so be sure you are in top physical shape before going into the water. Stay safe and do not drink alcohol while surfing.
Stay away from Riptides
According to NOAA, about 80% of all surfers have been caught ups and down at least once. So it is essential that you learn what they’re and how to find them. It occurs when fast-moving water and high waves push towards the shore and form currents that can pull swimmers out to sea.
When this happens, do not panic and swim against the current otherwise you will only get tired. Instead, swim parallel to the shore until you escape their clutches or reach shallow water where you can safely stand. Surviving a riptide is not difficult but requires some basic knowledge of riptides that each surfer should know.
Surf In Your Comfort Zone
While it is fine to test your limits every now and then, do not push yourself too hard or take unnecessary risks that could harm you. If you are not sure about something, it is better to avoid it and stay safe.
Also, if you are surfing in unfamiliar waters, make sure to ask the locals what you should watch out for before hitting the water. They will absolutely appreciate the gesture and will guarantee your safety while surfing along their beach.
Know the types of waves that break in the area you are surfing. Also pay attention to the location of rips and robust currents so you can avoid them at all costs.
Wear Waterproof Sunscreen
Just because you are in the water doesn’t suggest you are safe from the sun. Light reflecting off the surface of the water can make you more vulnerable to sunburn even if you are deep in the water. There’s something special waterproof sunscreen a formula designed for surfers or water sports enthusiasts that can provide enough protection against harmful UV rays.
Fortunately, knowledge is power and with all this new information there isn’t any reason to risk your life when the lessons learned quickly will keep you alive and surfing another day.
