How To Prevent Drownings In Rip Currents: A Simple Guide For Surfers

With surfing beaches more popular than ever this summer, The RNLI, HM Coastguard and local surf communities are pulling together to educate beachgoers and surfers alike on how to avoid the dangers posed by rips via the #BeBeachSafe campaign. 

This summer has already seen dozens of incidents where the knowledge and skill of local surfers have proved invaluable in preventing catastrophe, bringing into sharp focus the important role we all can play in sharing the info we’ve built up about our coastlines with those who need it. 

In this vein, we set out to compile a series of simple guides aimed at helping visiting and beginner surfers choose the right break and spot rips, as well as one containing advice for the wider community on what to do if you encounter someone in trouble.  

For a bit of professional expertise, we consulted the fine folk at the RNLI as well as regular WL contributor and Cornwall based senior lifeguard Pete Geall. We’re also inviting experienced surfers and lifesavers to add any additional tips they’ve found useful during their own experiences via the comments, so we can work towards creating a set of community-sourced guidelines: 

How to Pick A Safe Spot: A Simple Guide For Surfers

How To Spot A Rip: A Simple Guide For Surfers

What To Do If You See Someone Caught In A Rip: A Simple Guide For Surfers

Please share the tips contained within any way you can. Whether that’s a quick chat on the beach with a fellow surfer, a broadcast to your 75 adoring Insta followers or a long briefing, filled with your own flourishes and dazzling anecdotes, to your mates when they come and visit. While the info itself is pretty simple and most of you will already know it, by sharing it with someone who doesn’t, you might just save their life.

Cover photo: @lugarts