DO: Have the right equipment
Before you dip your toes into the salt surf, make sure you are
fully prepared with the right equipment. A common factor when a surfer
dies or is injured is the actual surfing equipment. Do not walk into a
store and buy a surfboard off the rack. Be sure you choose a board that
is light enough for you to handle in the water, is sturdy, and is the
right length for your height. In order to keep your surfboard with you,
you will need a leash that attaches to your ankle. Choose a swivel
connector to lessen the chances of getting tangled. If you choose to
wear a wet suit, be sure the fit is snug.
DO: Go prepared
A major factor when a new surfer dies is inexperience. Do not
attempt to hit the waves without proper training. Without the proper
knowledge of riptides, tangles, and other hazards, you will not be
prepared if an accident happens. There are many instructors who are
willing to spend a few hours teaching you basic safety skills. Learning
these skills will teach you how to react instinctively in an emergency
situation.
DO: Watch out for sea life
Many new surfers do not take into consideration the presence of
marine life on their surfing turf. From sharks, dolphins, and jelly fish
to a variety of plants, there are a lot of hazards beneath the surface.
One reason for surfer injuries or death is marine life. Boards or
bodies can become tangled in plants. A fast crash into an animal can
knock a surfer from their board causing serious injury. Many times these
types of encounters are unavoidable, but a little preparation can
increase your odds of survival.
DON'T: Go alone
The temptation to hit the waves when the beach is quiet lures
many surfers to the ocean. This decision can be deadly. While surfers
die when they are with someone else, the odds of survival increase
significantly if you have someone there who can help if you become
injured or trapped.
DON'T: Ignore warning signs
There are warning signs for a reason. If a beach is closed for
tide or the presence of riptides, do not think your swimming abilities
are sufficient. One of the most common factors when a surfer dies is
water conditions. If you get caught in a riptide, you can be pulled away
from shore and under water before you have time to react. Before you
head into deeper waters, even on calm days, be sure you know how to get
out of rip currents. Most surfing accidents occur when a surfer ignores
warning signs and attempts to hit the waves despite poor conditions.
DON'T: Ignore the terrain
There will be bigger waves around rocks, cliffs, jetties,
corals, and reefs and you should choose caution when attempting to hit
these waves. More than one inexperienced surfer has died or been
seriously injured attempting to ride waves too close to this terrain. If
you are a novice surfer, avoid potential collisions and other injuries
by steering clear and keeping an eye out for underwater rocks and
plants.
Surfing is not for the weak of heart. This sport can be a lot of
fun but there are serious risks involved. In many cases, when a surfer
dies, the accident could have been prevented. Be aware that despite your
preparing you are likely to run into dangerous situations, particularly
involving invisible water hazards. Having more than just the basic
swimming skills is vital before you head out into the waves. Stay safe
by being prepared and avoiding any obvious danger zones.
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