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Code
Black: Be prepared
As
days grow longer and the water temperature rises the
beach goers are advised to be on a high state of alert.
More of our family, friends and neighbors will all be
experiencing the feeling only a surfer knows. In addition
visitors from all over the United States and the world
are headed to the seashore. With sand underfoot and
blue skies overhead the beach is the place to be.
Often, the moments spent at the beach are the most priceless.
Memories are created that really last a lifetime and
grow fonder with time.
To
ensure a fun and safe trip to the beach, here is an
action checklist for trips to the beach.
? Make sure and bring plenty of sunscreen. Ironically
one of the most hazardous conditions in the sport of
surfing is sunburn. Damage from the sun is cumulative
and is the leading cause of skin cancer. An ounce of
prevention is worth more than a pound of cure.
? If you're going to make a day of the beach, be sure
and bring a hat with a big enough brim to help shade
your face from the harmful rays of the sun. Sunglasses
are also a good idea.
? Water-rich fruits like oranges, watermelon, tangerines
and pineapple all make delicious snacks for the beach.
Easily digested, these fruits help provide hydration
and energy for maximum fun.
? Water may rust pipes but it is still the best thing
for people. Swimming and surfing all day in the hot
sun can be very dehydrating and can lead to heat stroke.
Be sure and bring lots of water with you. It is a good
idea to drink one ounce of water for every pound of
body weight every day at home or the beach
? Families, friends and individuals should all use a
common beach marker. Ocean currents can cause people
to drift up or down the beach. Agree ahead of time to
stay in front of a stationary landmark.
? Take the time to check out the beach conditions. High
tide, low tide, rip tides and wind are some of the factors
to consider before entering the water. If you are unfamiliar
with a beach, ask a lifeguard or surfer if there are
any rocks, reefs or other hazards you should be aware
of.
Surfers have their own designated area called the surfing
zone. Signs and flags are posted to help identify swimming
from surfing zones. No swimmers are allowed in the surfing
zone, and in many instances, body boarders are not allowed.
If in doubt about an area ask a lifeguard or surfer,
they will be glad to help.
Surfboards made out of fiberglass and resin with razor
sharp fins can be lethal. Surfers are not required to
wear protective leashes, so when in the surfing zone
watch for loose surfboards. If a surfboard hits you,
it is your own fault for not paying attention. Bottom
line, stay out of the way of loose boards.
? Become proactive by taking the time to learn about
ocean/safety and surfing etiquette. Be aware and practice
common sense and save unnecessary angst. Soak in not
only the sun, but also all of the sights and sounds.
Surfing is good for the body and the head. Remember
to stop and smell the salt air, relax and enjoy, after
all, the beach really is the place to be. Sea you in
the surf.
The
Willis Bros. are surfing experts recognized for surfing
the worlds largest waves and teaching thousands in Hawaii
and California to surf.
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