Surf safe
Source: Irish Surfing Association -www.isasurf.ie-

After the huge swell that produced the biggest waves ever to be ridden in Ireland –click here to see it- the Irish Surfing Association sent the following message to the surfing community.

There has been considerable hype in the media this morning about the huge swell due this weekend. With this forecast in mind the Irish Surfing Association would like to take this opportunity to reinforce our “Safe Surfing” guidelines.

Surfing is an adventure sport with an inherent element of risk. The risk is increased during winter months as conditions become more extreme but it can be reduced if surfers adhere to basic safety.

Search and Rescue services are being called out to surfers more often than ever before. The Irish Surfing Association would request every surfer to unconditionally respect our rescue services.
Even the most experienced surfer may at some time require the assistance of the Irish Coast Guard. Should you see a surfer in difficulty in the water DON’T DELAY phone 112 or 999 and ask for the Coast Guard. 

Safe Surfing Guidelines

• Never surf alone.
• Always let somebody on land know where you have gone and when you will return. 
• Only surf if you can swim.
• Do not go surfing as dusk is approaching.
• Never go surfing if you have been drinking alcohol. 
• Check the weather and tides before you paddle out.
• Learn to observe condition so you can identify hazards.
• Surf waves suitable to your ability. If you are a novice take some surfing lessons an an ISA Approved Surf School and stick to beaches until you are experienced.
• If a break is unfamiliar to you get advice from local surfers before getting in.
• Check that your equipment, particularly your leash, is in good order. Remember it is easier to spot a brightly coloured surfboard or wetsuit at sea.
• When you wipe out do not come to the surface to quickly, allow your board time to land and come to the surface with your hands over your head.
• When paddling out always check behind you before abandoning your board.
• Never “drop in” on another surfer. The surfer nearest to peak has priority.
• If you do find yourself in difficulty stay calm and stay with your board.
• If you get caught in a rip do not try to paddle against the flow, paddle across it.
• If you see another surfer in difficulty do not delay, phone 112 or 999 and ask for the Coast Guard. Always respect the Coast Guard

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