If In Doubt, Don't Go Out - Surfing Safety
Posted: 11 October 2023
The golden rule of surfing is:
“never go surfing in water that you are unsure of, where the surf is larger than your ability.”
Ask yourself:
“would you still be able to swim in that surf and back to the shore if your leg-rope/leash breaks and you lose your board”
If you don’t think so,
the best idea is not to go surfing until the conditions are more suitable for you.
Check for Dangers and Hazards
Waves are a hazard. They have power and can hold you under water and throw you around.
Shore breaks are also a hazard if the waves are dumping.
Be aware of rips that can carry you out to sea and tire you out if you have to paddle back in.
Prepare
Before going into the surf, stay on the shore and watch the waves breaking.
Watch what other people are doing.
If there is no-one out in the water, you might ask why. Ask the locals, check with the lifeguards.
If in doubt, don’t go out.
Contact an ASI Accredited Surf school to learn more.
https://www.academyofsurfing.com/schools/search
