Surfing has become a very common hobby among young adults. Many surfers enjoy surfing because they get to relax and unwind from their daily lives. But some surfers also worry about surfing safety.
Surfing is a sport that involves riding waves using a surfboard. The sport is practiced worldwide and is especially popular in Australia, Hawaii, New Zealand, South Africa, and California.
Surfers can experience various types of injuries during surfing. Some of these include cuts, bruises, sprains, concussions, and broken bones. Surfers who don’t take proper precautions can suffer serious injuries.
In this article we shall look at whether surfing is safe, but also the positive side. So, let’s get to it!
What Are The Dangers of Surfing?
The most dangerous thing about surfing is that there are many things that can go wrong while surfing. This includes getting hit by a wave or losing balance on your board. If you fall off your board, you may be injured. You could even drown if you’re not careful.
There are other dangers associated with surfing as well. These include being knocked over by another surfer, getting caught in between two waves, or falling into shallow water. All of these situations can cause injury.
Surfing is a sport that requires skill and practice. It takes time to learn how to ride a surfboard properly. Even after learning how to do so, you still need to know what to expect when you’re out in the ocean.
If you’re new to surfing, you should always wear a life jacket. A life jacket will keep you afloat until help arrives. It will also protect you from sharks.
You should also carry a first aid kit. This allows you to treat minor injuries like cuts and scrapes.
Other items that you might want to pack include sunscreen lotion, a towel, and a hat. While they are not related to surfing itself, you are spending time outside and will also need to protect yourself from the sun.
Is Surfing Generally Safe?
Yes, surfing is safe so long as you make sure to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions. You should follow certain rules and guidelines.
Some of these are:
As stated above, always wear a life jacket if you are new to surfing.
Never try to catch a wave yourself. Instead, wait for one to approach you.
Stay away from people who are swimming alone.
Don’t swim near coral reefs.
Be aware of rip currents. If you don’t know what one is, research them because it’s super important.
Learn how to read the weather forecast before heading out.
Avoid going surfing when the wind is high.
Don’t use alcohol or drugs before going surfing. You need to be fully aware of everything.
Is It Safe To Surf Alone?
Many surfers choose to go surfing alone. They feel safer doing so, however, this isn’t recommended.
When you’re surfing alone, you have no way of knowing whether, or not, anyone else is nearby. Therefore, you must stay alert at all times.
It’s best to stick with groups of friends or family members. They can watch out for each other and ensure that you’re safe.
If you decide to go surfing alone, you should only go when you feel comfortable doing so.
Can I Get Hurt When Surfing?
Absolutely! As stated above, there are several ways that you can get hurt while surfing. Here are some examples:
A cut or bruise can happen if you accidentally strike something sharp.
A broken bone can occur if you fall off your surfboard.
An ankle sprain can occur if you trip or lose control of your board.
A concussion can result from hitting your head against an object.
Skin burns can occur if you come into contact with hot sand or water, or if you do not wear sun lotion.
A broken arm or leg can occur if you hit rocks or other objects on the beach.
An eye injury can occur if you hit your face on a rock.
Other types of injuries can occur as well. Always remember to wear a life vest and follow safety tips.
What Happens If I Fall Off My Board?
The most common type of injury that occurs when you fall off your surfboard is a sprained wrist. Your wrist will usually be very painful.
Wrist injuries are caused by twisting motions. To prevent them, make sure to hold onto your board tightly.
Another kind of injury that can occur when you fall off your board is a pulled muscle in your back. It can cause severe pain and even lead to paralysis – but this is rare.
You may also suffer a fractured rib or collarbone. These injuries are more serious than others and require immediate medical attention.
You can avoid getting injured by wearing a properly fitting life jacket. A life jacket should fit snugly around your body.
Will The Lifeguards At The Beach Help Me?
Yes, they will. The lifeguards will help you if you fall off your board. They’ll also keep you safe if you slip and fall on wet sand or rocks.
They’ll also check to see if you’ve been drinking or using drugs.
They’ll also look for signs of hypothermia (a condition where your body temperature drops below normal) and dehydration (when your body doesn’t have enough fluids).
Do I Need To Wear A Helmet While Surfing?
No. Wearing a helmet is not required when you’re surfing. However, wearing one can reduce the risk of suffering a brain injury.
Helmets are designed to protect the skull and brain area. If you hit your head on a hard surface like a rock, it could damage these areas.
Helmets are available in different styles. Some helmets are made specifically for surfing. Others are used for skiing and snowboarding.
What Are the Positives About Surfing?
Surfing has many benefits. You don’t need any special equipment to enjoy it. All you need is a pair of shorts and a bathing suit.
It’s great exercise. Surfing requires you to use your whole body. This helps build strong muscles and burn calories.
It’s fun. When you’re surfing, you feel free and relaxed. There aren’t any rules or restrictions. You can choose how fast you want to go, what wave size you prefer, and whether you want to catch waves or ride them.
It’s good for your health. Surfing improves your balance and coordination. It gets your heart pumping so you get more oxygen. And it makes you stronger.
Final Thoughts
If you’re new to surfing, take some lessons first. Then practice until you become comfortable riding the waves.
When you’re ready, go out there and enjoy surfing, but always remember to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to look after yourself.
