Grom Club Surf Safety - 20 Golden Rules

1. If in doubt don’t go out !

2. Never surf after eating. Wait 1 hour.

3. When learning, never surf alone.

4. Know what the tide is doing.

5. Try to watch the surf and the conditions for 10 minutes before you go out. Check for big sets and rips.

6. Rips : things to look for -
     Check for darker water 
     Lots of sand in the water
     There may be debris floating
     Waves not breaking as much or at all
     Surface of the water has a rippled look, elsewhere is smooth.

   Never paddle against a rip.
   Paddle across the rip and then back to the shore.

7. Surf where it is safe. (between the black and white flags, nowhere too crowded, check with lifeguards if in doubt, etc)

8. Always wear a leash.

9. Make sure your equipment is in good condition.

10. Learn to duck-dive or roll your board – never bail !

11. Never paddle out directly behind somebody else.

12. When you are out the back or ready to catch waves – line yourself up with 2 objects on the beach to keep your position in check.

13. Watch other people - be aware.

14. Never drop in. Look before you take off.

15. If you fall off your board always cover your head/face/neck.

16. Try not to jump off your board. The water may be shallower than you think. (Kneel down, hands on rail, step off).

17. Try not to dive off your board - it may be shallow !

18. If you are cold – get out.

19. If you get into trouble ALWAYS stay with your board.
Wave your arm with a clenched fist.