6.4.1 Safe Surfing Guidelines

6.4.1 Safe Surfing Guidelines

▪Be aware of hypothermia and

leave the water if symptoms occur (shivering, numb extremities and poor co-ordination).

The following are some Safe Surfing Guidelines from Irish Surfing that apply to various surfing disciplines:

▪Always ensure you are off the

Learn to surf at an Irish Surfing registered surf club or surf school.

water well before sunset.

6.3 National Association

The Irish Windsurfing Association (IWA) is an affiliated club of Irish Sailing and as such is the governing body for competitive windsurfing. Windsurfing events are run in accordance with the safety guidelines of the IWA (see Appendix 10 for contact details).

Do not attempt surfing unless you can swim.

Do not surf alone or enter the water as dusk is approaching or if you have been drinking alcohol.

Always let somebody on land know where you have gone and when you will return.

6.4 Other water based activities

While this Code of Practice is focused primarily on the safe operation of navigable recreational craft, there are many other waterbased activities where appropriate training, knowledge and safety awareness are of similar importance.

Check the weather and tides before you paddle out. Learn to observe the ocean so you can identify rips, wind changes and other hazards.

With the increased popularity of activities such as surfing and kite surfing, attention is drawn to a range of safety information leaflets and guidelines that are available to view or download on the www. safetyonthewater.ie website and from bodies such as Water Safety Ireland at www.watersafety.ie and the Irish Surfing Association at www.irishsurfing.ie.

If you are unfamiliar with a break, check with local surfers or other water users before paddling out. Ensure the waves you are surfing are of a size and power suitable to your ability. Do not get too confident. Stick to beaches until you become experienced.

Make sure your equipment, especially your leash, is in good order. Remember it is easier to spot a brightly coloured surfboard or wetsuit at sea in the event that you require rescuing.