If you’re just starting out with surfing or looking to refine your skills, understanding surf safety is just as important as learning how to catch waves. Whether you’re taking a surf lesson with us or practicing on your own at one of the many surf spots in Costa da Caparica or near Lisbon, knowing how to stay safe in the water is crucial. At Breakthrough Surf School, we emphasize these fundamental safety rules to ensure that every surfer enjoys their surf lesson.
Safety Rules to Follow Before Entering the Water
Before entering the water, it’s essential to go over a few safety rules while still on the sand:
- Never dive headfirst: Always enter the water feet first and be cautious of shallow areas, sandbanks, and submerged rocks.
- Protect your head when falling: If you wipe out, use your arms to shield your head from your surfboard or other obstacles.
- Avoid grabbing the leash or its string: Your surfboard leash is crucial for keeping your surfboard close, but grabbing it can lead to painful hand injuries.
- Keep your surfboard to your side: Never position your surfboard between yourself and an approaching wave. This prevents it from being thrown back at you with force.
Staying Safe in the Water
Once you’re in the ocean, following these additional safety tips can help you navigate the waves confidently:
- Always stay on your surfboard: If you get caught in a rip current (rip tide) or feel overwhelmed, resist the urge to abandon your board and start swimming. Your surfboard is your best flotation device and will help keep you safe until you regain control.
- Understanding and handling rip currents (rip tides): If you find yourself caught in a rip current (rip tide), don’t panic. Instead of paddling directly against the current, paddle parallel to the shore to escape it. Once free, you can paddle back to safety.
- Know your limits: If conditions seem too challenging for your skill level, wait for a safer time or seek advice from your surf instructor.
Learn to Surf Safely in Portugal
If you’re looking for a safe and fun environment to learn to surf, Breakthrough Surf School in Costa da Caparica offers expert guidance in one of Portugal’s best surf destinations. Our surf lessons near Lisbon focus not only on technique but also on safety, ensuring that every student gains the confidence to enjoy the waves responsibly.
During our 5-day surf camp in Costa da Caparica we will be teaching you this and many other skills, so don’t miss the chance and book your spot now!
If you are coming to Portugal or if you are already in Lisbon, book your surf lesson today and make the most of your surfing experience in Portugal!
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