Water Safety

Surfing

Surfing has become an extremely popular water sport because it is fun, inexpensive and a good way to keep cool during the summer. With the ever growing number of surfers, it becomes even more important to understand how to be safe and respectful of those around you.

Learn how to surf.

While it may seem easy, surfing is a skill that can be difficult to pick up. If you've never surfed before, don't just hop on a board and head into the ocean, take a class on how to surf first. You'll learn how to carry your board when walking into the ocean, how to handle the board in a variety of riding scenarios and proper etiquette when sharing the ocean with other surfers. It is important to know how to communicate with your fellow wave riders, which surfer can claim the peak of a good wave and what to do if you crash so you won't take others down with you.

Before you take surfing lessons, it is essential that you know how to swim. Anyone who is interested in learning to surf should start off with swim lessons.

What to take to the beach

One of the appeals of surfing is that it doesn't take a lot of equipment. It is still important to bring a few items for your personal safety. Always keep a fully loaded first aid kit and a cell phone on land. These will come in handy for minor injuries, or if you need to call for emergency medical assistance. Take plenty of water proof sun screen and keep it on you at all time to avoid a serious sun burn. Also, bring a friend with you when you surf. No one should ever surf alone - always have a surfing buddy so the two of you can watch out for each other.

Prepare for the water.

While large waves are a big part of surfing, it is very dangerous to be in the water during a storm. Always check the weather forecast to make sure conditions are safe for surfing. When you will be surfing in cold weather, it is a good idea to wear a wet suit. This will protect your body and help you to avoid the risk of hypothermia. Once you are ready to paddle out into the water, be certain to put a board leash on. The leash will attach both to your board and to your ankle so that you will not get separated. With a leash you will keep the board close to you and avoid having it crash into others.

On the waves

One thing you will learn from you surfing class is to yell out "Left" of "Right" to notify others of which direction you intend to turn. If surfers do not communicate which way they are going, they run a high risk of crashing into each other. Learn to share the waves and always be aware of exactly where your fellow surfers are.

When you fall

Even the best surfers are going to fall at some point. Wearing the leash will help make sure you always find your board and do not go too far under the water. When you do go under, stay calm. Swim upwards and hold your arms above your head as you go to make sure you don't crash head first into a board. Once you reach the surface, climb back on your board. If you need a rest, paddle back to shore and rest on the beach. Don't remain in the water or you run the risk of being hit by another surfer.

When you know the rules and etiquette of surfing, it can be an exciting and rewarding activity. Play it safe and have a good time on the waves.