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Destination Cornwall - Uniquely Daily |
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Windsurfing Safety and Information
The following information comes from 'Windsurfing Safety Guide' a free publication issued by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency.
Windsurfing can be safely enjoyed by virtually anyone by following a few basic guidelines prepared by HM Coastguard together with the RYA Windsurfing division.
Learn to windsurf at an RYA recognised Windsurfing School.
Basic Principals about self rescue and precautions to take with equipment, etc., should be learnt - especially before sailing off the beach for the first time. To learn to windsurf, contact the RYA for a 'recognised centres' brochure containing details of your nearest RYA teaching establishment.
Beware of the Cold - Wear suitable clothing.
Activity in water causes rapid loss of body heat which can lead to hypothermia, weakness and dulled mental reactions. in the summer, a wet or dry suit of 3mm or more is the minimum required, in winter it should be 5mm or more. Be aware of heat loss especially if winds are blowing from the north or east. Most heat is lost from the head, hands and feet. In cold weather, neoprene hat, gloves and boots are advisable.
Personal Buoyancy.
Always use a buoyancy aid and harness. Although a wet suit will provide some buoyancy, it is advisable to wear a buoyancy aid which does not impede your movement. For wave jumping or speed sailing, a crash helmet is advisable.
Board and rig condition.
Ensure all elements of your board and rig are in good order, paying particular attention to ropes, pulleys, universal joints, rig/board connection, mast, boom and safety leashes. Keep spare line with you and learn how to effect temporary repairs from the RYA centres or windsurfing magazines. Look after your equipment and flush metal parts with fresh water at the end of every session.
Never leave your board.
Your board is your main source of buoyancy. If you cannot reach shore by attempting self rescue, make a recognised distress signal. The rig will act as a sea anchor, provide some stability and offer good visual opportunities for rescuers. If board and rig become separated, stay with the board.
Never sail alone - use the 'Buddy' system.
Make sure that your expected time of return is known by someone ashore (your agent) and that they keep visual contact with you on the water. Windsurf with a buddy. This will ensure that should there be a problem assistance can be summoned. Windsurfing clubs provide a friendly means of sailing safely with others. If possible chose a beach with rescue cover.
Seek Advice on wind and tide.
See watersports main page for weather information and tides.
Ask local ng in strength further from land. Remember - NEVER sail in an offshore wind. As the sun sets, expect wind to change to an offshore breeze.
Tides.
The safest time to windsurf is at the turn of the tide. The speed of the water flow is slowest about an hour before and an hour after high tide. Beginners should avoid sailing 3 or 4 hours after high or low tide when the speed of the water flow may be faster than they can sail. When wind is against tide the sea is choppy. Avoid trying to launch if the shore break is heavy.
Keep to and out of.
Some beaches are 'zoned', watch out for special windsurfing areas. Keep out of narrow navigable channels, shipping and other high traffic areas. Learn the 'rules of the road'.
Distress Signals.
Be prepared for the worst and always carry a recognised smoke signal or red distress flare on your person. Learn how to use them. An orange dayglo flag can be used as an aid to attract attention and is available from the RYA. In flat water conditions a recognised signal is to slowly raise and lower outstretched arms.
Be considerate to other water users.
Be particularly alert to the presence of swimmers and children in the water. Clear the beach as soon as possible.
Insurance.
Make sure you have taken out at least third party insurance before you launch. Membership of RYA Windsurfing includes such cover. Otherwise a windsurfing shop will provide an application form.
Self Rescue - The Butterfly Technique.
In calm weather conditions, swivel the rig so that the boom is lying on the back of the board with the mast pointing out behind and the sail out of the water. Then lie on the deck and paddle to safety.
In strong winds, if you are not too far from the shore, ditch the rig and paddle in. In extreme conditions, ditch the rig to maintain board stability. Only ditch the rig if you are within reach of the shore. The full self rescue is a key element of the RYA Windsurfing courses which is strongly recommended. For details contact RYA Windsurfing. Destination Cornwall also has a list of Cornwall's RYA recognised centres - look under water sports.
If self rescue is unsuccessful put the rig back in the water so it acts as a sea anchor and reduces your rate of drift. Attract attention with your whistle, dayglo flag or flare. Never abandon your board except to get into a rescue vehicle. if you have to abandon your board or rig, tell the Coastguard, stating description and position.
In the event of an emergency.
Never leave your board - it will keep you afloat
Attract attention immediately
Attempt self rescue
Carry a flare and use it to contact Coastguard
Keep warm and paddle to maintain your position
Inform Coastguard when you arrive safely on the beach.
Useful Addresses:
RYA Windsurfing Division
RYA House
Romsey Road
Eastleigh
Hants. SO50 9YA.
Telephone: 01703 627457.