Whether you are an amateur or professional surfer, there are certain dangers in the water that you need to be aware of. Far too many people hit the waves without realizing all of the potential dangers of this sport. Although serious injuries are few and far between, they do occur. In this post, we’re going to reveal the top 4 dangers of surfing.
#1 – Riptides
One of the biggest dangers surfers face — and anyone else enjoying the ocean — are riptides. Also known as a rip current, these are long and narrow stretches of fast-moving water hidden in the ocean. Riptides vary in terms of size, shape and strength, but even the weaker ones are capable of pulling an able-bodied swimmer out to sea. As a surfer, you need to be aware of the location of riptides so you can surf around them.
#2 – Hidden Reefs
Another potential danger is the threat of sharp coral reefs hidden on the ocean floor. From the shore, it’s impossible to determine where exactly the reefs are located. Once a monster wave knocks you over, however, it could throw you into a hidden reef lurking on the ocean floor. This can result in bruises, lacerations or even broken bones. So, how do you avoid injuries such as this? Surfers need to identify parts of the ocean where reefs or rock bottoms are located.
#3 – Other Surfers
Of course, another danger comes from other surfers on the water. Even if you know what you’re doing out there, other surfers might not. A medium-to-large sized wave could wipe them out, sending them right on top you. Having a grown adult surfer slam into you while you are trying to catch a wave isn’t a pleasant experience. For both your sake and the sake of other surfers on the water, space yourself out. I know this is hard to accomplish on a crowded summer day, but you need a ‘bubble’ of space around you and your board to avoid accidents such as this.
#4 – Jellyfish
Most surfers and beach-goers fear hungry sharks roaming the waters, but it’s really the jellyfish that you should worry about. Depending on your location and the time of season, you could thousands of jellyfish crowding a small strip of beach. Wearing a neoprene wetsuit will offer you some protection against their stinging tentacles, but your hands and face are still left vulnerable. Watch for jellyfish and check with the local lifeguard station to see how many stings they’ve reported.