Surfing Safety and Etiquette

 

Surfing is becoming more and more polular .. and it is because of this the safety and etiquette of surfing is more and more significant and important.

 

Every surfer need to know the common courtesy of surfing .. or the surfing "rules" if you want to call them that....

 

The Basics:

 

Respect the environment. Alwasy dispose of any trash you bring to the beach.

Respect others with a positive attitude. Help keep surfing fun for everyone.

Learn of the local surf laws by checking with a lifequard before surfing and make sure to follow them.

Wearing a leash is a law at many beaches but even where it isn't.. use one. You won't lose your board and you won't cause an injury to anyone with a loose board.

Be ready to come to the aid of anyone in the water in trouble.

Become certified in CPR and Basic First Aid. It is important for anyone who surfs to do this.

Be aware of the weather at all times ... and wear sunscreen.

Surf only witin your ability. If you go into conditions beyond you are not only putting yourself at risk but any surfers around you.

If you have questions... as the lifeguard. It is what they are there for.

Never surf alone.

 

Safety Factors

 

Beginners should always practice in uncrowded areas.

Be aware of other surfers when paddling out ... knowoing their positions and directions.

Do not paddle out into a breaking wave .. first because of the danger of coming headon with rider on the wave and second because it is much easier to paddleout on a rip current.

Always remember a rider on a wave has the right of way to the paddler.

Paddler closer to the wave's peak has the right of way for that wave.

Do not "snake" ... or jump in on a wave in front of another surfer already positioned on that wave.

As you drop in on a wave ... shout out which direction you will go... right or left... especially if there is another surfer closeby.

Never abandon your surfboard when others are around. Duck dive rather than set it loose.

 

Remember .. the object of surfing is to have fun..to enjoy the water.

 

If you are a beginner.. consider taking some lessons before starting out.... get comfortable with your board.

It will pay off big time down the road.

 

KEYWORDS .. surfing safety, surfing etiquette, surf safety

 

description   Know the rules or common courtesy of surfing to be able to enjoy it fully.........