These dangers are waiting for you in the river!
One thing is for sure, flowing water is mostly underestimated and surfing in the river is very safe, but only if you pay attention to some things. Even if a river is flowing very calmly, it does not mean that there are no dangers waiting for you. As soon as you have assumed the speed of the water, it doesn't seem so fast anymore, but this is deceptive. Underwater eddies, rocks and water rollers are just a few obstacles that can quickly become dangerous at high river speeds. Probably the most important thing when swimming in the river, is that you know your limits exactly. Many people overestimate themselves and are not up to this force of nature in dangerous situations. The following are probably the most common dangers when surfing in the river.
Shallow or unclear water
Before you surf in the river, you should check your surroundings. The best thing to do is jump on your surfboard and paddle down the stretch to be surfed with your friends and see if the water gets too shallow anywhere or if there are rocks in the water. Just because you can't see anything from the outside doesn't mean there aren't rocks or logs in the water. Ideally, you should check your spot in winter when the water is low. This way you can note all obstacles and their position.
Stones and trees
You will quickly feel stones near the surface of the water as you paddle down. Therefore, always float down the river with your legs bent. The most dangerous places are tree trunks or bushes that protrude from the bank into the water. If you get caught there, the water will force you down and it will be almost impossible to free yourself. Never try to paddle out of the water just in front of such a tree trunk or bush sticking out into the water. If you don't make it, it can end badly. Try to avoid such places and rather take an exit later.
Flow
The current is essential for river surfing, but at the same time it is the most dangerous thing about it. Without current, stones, logs or shallow water would not be dangerous, only the current makes them potential hazards. To protect yourself against the current, it is important that you always wear a wetsuit and an impact protection vest, and ideally an additional helmet. Try to recognize and avoid dangers early enough, because they will be with you faster than you think. And the most important thing, don't try to fight against the water, you will lose for sure. Try to save your energy and choose an ideal exit point. If you don't catch it, drift on and take the next one, so that you still have enough strength to pull yourself out of the water there.
Above and below water vortex
Topwater eddies can be seen from a distance and should be avoided. If you do get into an eddy, try to use your speed to paddle back out. If this does not work, hold on to the surfboard. Such eddies usually dissolve after a short time and you can continue paddling. If you are pulled underwater and get into an underwater vortex, you should definitely stay calm. The goal is to retain as much air as possible. At the bottom the vortex is not so strong and you can swim out on your side. Don't try to fight it, but save your energy to be able to swim back up afterwards. We know that this sounds very scary, but this is probably the best option you have in such a situation.
Surfsystems
A small but still a danger are the surf systems. A tethered rope in flowing water should always be viewed with extreme caution. That you or someone else on the river could get caught in it is probably the biggest danger. Therefore, if you are not surfing, pull your rope to shore. If this is not possible, hang a warning sign in front of the rope to warn other river users early enough. If someone does get caught, it must be possible to cut the rope as quickly as possible, using a rope cutter. Ideally, there should be one cutter at the attachment point and one on the bank. Double is better.
This will help you if something happens!
Preventive action is always best. Anything you already have ready to help someone in the water will save you precious seconds and this can save lives. Following are a few tips to make river surfing safe for you and others.
- Always have 2 RopeCutters ready, if you get caught they will save your life.
- Surf at least in threes. It's much more fun anyway.
- Always look out for your colleagues when surfing. Quick action is the key, in case of an emergency.
- Surf without a leash. That way you won't get caught.
- Always have a surfboard ready near the river. It is ready in case of emergency.
- Know your spot (eddies, stones, rollers, rapids).
- Only surf with impeccable equipment. Check your equipment before every session.
- Signal to other river goers that you are surfing.
- Never leave your surfing equipment unattended and place it on the shore when not surfing.
- Do not surf with driftwood in the water.
- Always wear a wetsuit that serves as a buoyancy aid in case of emergency. Also boots, impact protection vest and helmet are recommended, because everything protects you additionally.
With these few tips you make surfing in the Swiss rivers, a lot safer. Also when surfing, the first priority is to know your limits and abilities. If you are not yet confident on the board, inform your colleagues in advance, so that they always have an eye on you. Also be careful with oncoming boats and swimmers. Better wait a short while until your area to be surfed is free of any obstacles. We at SEPORSURF also always wear a wetsuit, as this serves as a buoyancy aid in an emergency.
What can I do if something happens?
If it is you who needs help, there is only one thing to do. In any case, stay calm. No matter what emergency situation you find yourself in, staying calm is always beneficial as it saves your strength and energy. Now it's up to your friends. If you get caught in the rope, one of your friends must swim to you with the Rope Cutter to cut the rope and help you. If the rope is missed or cannot be cut, your second friend must cut the rope on the bridge. Therefore, always have 2 Rope Cutters ready.
If you have a cramp or you feel sick, do not hesitate and ask for help from your friends by a prearranged hand signal. It is better to be too early than too late as the river will keep pushing you down and your helpers will take longer and longer to get to you. With these few tips you will have a safe stay surfing the river and we wish you and your friends a fun day on the river.
For more tips and information you can also www.bungeesurfing.ch visit.
