Cornish Wave
Six Things To Know Before Your First Surf Lesson
TIDES
Always be aware of what the tide is doing. Is the tide coming in or going out? There are many places to check, such as surf forecasting websites, tide times booklets, or ask at the local lifeguard hut. The UK and Ireland have some of the largest tides in the world, so ensure you know what the tide is doing before heading out to avoid being stranded.
RIP CURRENTS
A Rip Current is a strong offshore current that can easily take swimmers, surfers, and bodyboarders out of their depth very quickly. If you find yourself caught in a Rip Current:
- Stay calm and collected. Do not panic.
- If you are still able to stand – wade through the sea rather than swim.
- Hold onto any flotation aids you have with you, like bodyboards or inflatables.
- Raise one arm – wave and shout for help.
- Never swim against the rip; swim parallel to the shore until out of the current.
If you see someone in trouble, inform a lifeguard immediately. If no lifeguards are on duty, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.
KNOW YOUR FLAGS
The RNLI lifeguards use a coloured flagged system to mark safe swim or surf zones. The area between Red and Yellow Flags is the safe area to swim, bath, bodyboard and use inflatables. The area between Black and White Flags is the safe zone for water hard crafts and surfers. A Red Flag indicates that the beach is closed and that the sea is dangerous. An orange windsock means windy conditions, so inflatables should not be taken out. Read more about Rip Current and Coasteering Safety in our guides.
BEACH SAFETY TIPS
Discover essential beach safety tips to ensure a fun and secure day by the sea. From sun protection to emergency preparedness, these guidelines help you stay safe while enjoying the coastal environment.
Stay Sun Safe
- Protect yourself from harmful UV rays:
- Apply high-factor sunscreen regularly.
- Wear a hat and UV-blocking sunglasses.
- Stay hydrated by drinking water often.
- Avoid prolonged exposure during peak sun hours (11am–3pm).
Be Aware of Local Hazards
- Marine life: Be cautious of jellyfish or weever fish, which may sting if stepped on.
- Slippery rocks and uneven terrain: Watch your step to prevent injuries.
- Strong waves: They can knock you over or drag you into deeper water.
Keep Children Safe
- Always supervise children near water.
- Use floatation devices if they cannot swim confidently.
- Establish a clear meeting point in case someone gets lost.
Plan for Emergencies
- Know the local emergency number (UK: 999 or 112).
- If in trouble in the water, try to float and signal for help.
- Learn basic first aid, including CPR, to assist others if needed.
Additional Tips for Beachgoers
- Avoid alcohol before entering the water. It impairs judgement and coordination.
- Wear suitable footwear to protect against sharp objects or hot sand.
- Dispose of litter responsibly to keep beaches clean and protect wildlife.
Learn Beach Safety with Experts
Enhance your beach safety knowledge by participating in professional surf lessons or coasteering experiences. These activities teach essential water skills and safety practices under expert guidance.
Leave us a message
We would love to hear from you
Give us a call, send us an email, or simply fill out the quick form below to enquire about our Adventure weekends, Surfing, and Coasteering activities in Newquay.
