Sisters of the Sea - First Surf Lesson

E. Cheer others successes. (Don't be caught seeing their bads. Still, watch long enough to make sure they're really o.k.)

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Rule #2 - BE PREVENTIVE!!

Suggestions:
A. Use the Buddy System!

B. If anything seems amiss, or if you get injured, go to the beach immediately to assess the situation. If your buddy goes to the beach, FOLLOW IMMEDIATELY!!

C. If you're cold, cramping, exhausted or your buddy's lips are blue, take a break! "There were waves long before man arrived on earth and there will be waves long after we're gone." Sometimes it's best to give yourself a rest. Be well and stay well! It will improve your surf fun!!

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Rule #3 - BE AWARE OF THE CONDITIONS!

Suggestions:
A. Lightening? Don't EVEN go there!! It's NOT worth it!!!

B. BIG waves? Be able to judge the size of the waves to determine if it's safe for you to paddle out.

C. Heavy Drift? Be aware of the direction that the drift is going. Be prepared for a long walk back.

D. RUN OUTS? Learn to recognize them and identify where they are. If caught in one, don't panic. Paddle calmly parallel to shore until it quits carrying you out to sea. When you get to where the current isn't fighting you to do so, paddle toward shore. Take your time. Know you'll get there. Sing lots of songs in your head and check your position only every now and then. Be gentle, it will conserve energy.

E. Hypothermia? Take more warmth than you think you might ever need! Take vests or fleece rash guards to wear in the water, plus towels, socks, and a dry sweatshirt to throw on afterward.

F. Dehydration? DRINK water before you surf (WAY before) and have some for afterward. PowerAde/Gatorade is all good! Tea and sodas dehydrate, bring something else you like! Keep it cool or hot depending on whether it's hot or cold outside.

G. Sunburn? Wear SUNSCREEN, rash guards and/or a surf hat! SHADE = GOOD! Beach umbrellas for the day can save you!

H. Heatstroke? Shade is Good. So are cold drinks. Did I mention shade =good?

I. Cold packs come in handy for lumps and bumps. Immediate ice is preventive . Cold soda cans work great too. Sooner applied the better.

J. Stings? Remove stingers, apply amonia/water mix (or meat tenderizer, something acidic to denature the protein). Later, apply baking soda or see the lifeguard for quick relief kit. IF AIRWAY IS AFFECTED, GO TO THE HOSPITAL E.R. IMMEDIATELY!!! Do you have an Epipen? If you have known allergic reactions to stings, ask your physician about these in advance.

K. Be responsible! Feeding frenzy? Check for what's running through it. You may want to walk to another location for a while or take a lunch break to avoid being lunch.

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