bungeesurf
Bungee surfing in Switzerland is becoming more and more popular and that is exactly why it should also be safe for new surfers. Therefore, in cooperation with the SLRG, the following bungee surfing rules have been drawn up to make the sport safer..
Surf at least in threes
Several people are needed to intervene in the event of an accident. In the event of a life-threatening situation, one person must be ready to secure the casualty immediately and pull him ashore. Another person is needed as a backup. He supports the rescue or informs the rescue forces if necessary.
Make sure that two rescue knives (e.g. Ropecutter) are ready.
The bungee cord and/or handle pose a particularly great danger. In an untensioned state it can easily twist in the water and form loops. Once you are caught in a loop in the rope, the current will pull it tight and make it impossible to free yourself. Rope cutters should therefore be ready to free the trapped person. It is important to cut just before the loop in order to be able to rescue the unconscious person if necessary.
Know your environment - control the given environmental influences
At the beginning, the terrain and area should be checked. To be avoided: blind spots, entry and exit without visual contact, turbid or shallow waters. Beware of strong currents such as high water, watch out for flotsam.
In addition, you should inform yourself in advance of possible thunderstorms and flood warnings.
Signal yourself sufficiently - Respect the other river users and give them the right of way
Clear signalling allows boats and swimmers to be informed sufficiently early. This leaves more time for any evasive manoeuvres and collisions can be prevented.
Used material in perfect condition
At the beginning, all material should be checked for defects. Attention is paid to the bungee rope. If it shows major damage to the sheathing after proper use, further use is not recommended. The service life is one to two seasons and can vary greatly with improper use.
Know your strength and abilities and observe the general bathing and river rules (SLRG).
You should be able to maintain rope control at all times. Do not let the rope snap back unnecessarily. When surfing, avoid subsequent turns that risk entanglement.
The general bathing and river rules of the SLRG must be observed. Surfing is still not allowed in nature reserves.
