Download our Windsurfing Booklet in PDF Format - Safety On The ...

Tide checkWhen sailing at the coast it is important to understand the local tides. Find out from localwindsurfers or tidal charts the times of high and low water and whether it is spring orneap tides (the tidal range and currents will be larger at spring tides).■ Time your sailing to fit the tide. Thewaves will usually be smaller at low tide,but it could be a long walk to/from thewater’s edge. If the tide is dropping, findout if there are any rocks or sandbarsthat will become a problem as thewaters recede.■ Beware of tidal flows around headlands,which can produce difficult anddangerous waves. If the tide changesdirection and wind starts blowingagainst tide, conditions can rapidlydeteriorate. Remember that tidalcurrents are strongest 2-4 hours afterlow/high water.■ Never windsurf near a harbour entrance.The tide may flow so fast through thenarrows that you cannot sail against it.The board will be swept away like a corkif you fall or drop the rig.Wind directionsOffshore winds canmean danger!Most windsurfer rescuesare caused by boards andsailors being blown out tosea in an offshore wind.Don't join the statistics!■ Never windsurf in anoffshore wind unlessyou are extremelycompetent andfamiliar with the localconditions. (And eventhen, you should nevergo out alone.) The windat the beach is likely tobe gusty as it funnelsround trees.915