Help Center › Safety
Safety Information
The ocean is unpredictable and the lineup is a shared space. These are the basics every surfer should know — whether you're just starting out or you've been surfing for decades.
Before you get in the water
- Know your limits. Pick spots that match your skill level. If you're unsure, ask a local or check the spot profile on Surfyx for difficulty and wave type.
- Check the forecast. Swell size, tide, period, and wind direction matter more than the photo from yesterday. When in doubt, watch a set before paddling out.
- Learn the break. Rips, rocks, reef, and crowds are all spot-specific. Five minutes of observation from the beach is the cheapest safety tool you have.
- Use the right equipment. Leashes, properly sized boards, and a wetsuit suitable for the water temperature are non-negotiable.
In the water
Respect the lineup
The person closest to the peak has right of way. Don't drop in. Don't snake. Wait your turn. Apologise if you make a mistake — everyone has, including us.
Watch out for other people
Beginners and advanced surfers share the same water. Never ride a wave toward someone who can't get out of the way, never paddle across a breaking wave, and always be ready to bail if a collision is possible.
Know your exit
Before paddling out, know how you'll get back to shore if conditions change. If you're unsure where rips are, ask a lifeguard or a local before you go out.
Solo surfing
Solo sessions happen. When they do:
- Tell someone. A friend, a partner, a lifeguard — anyone who knows when to expect you back.
- Stay within your limits. Solo is not the time to push a grade up.
- Know CPR, or surf with someone who does. First aid training is one of the best safety investments a surfer can make.
- Carry a phone or VHF if possible. Modern waterproof pouches make this easier than it used to be.
In an emergency
If you or someone else is in immediate danger:
- Call local emergency services. Numbers vary by country — programme yours before you travel.
- Alert the nearest lifeguard. They have rescue equipment and training beyond what a casual surfer has.
- Do not enter the water to attempt a rescue unless you are trained. Drowning victims can drown their rescuers. A floating object thrown from shore is often safer.
Safety on Surfyx
Reporting content or users
Every session, comment, message, review, and photo on Surfyx can be reported. If you see something that puts a person at risk, violates our community guidelines, or looks like spam or abuse, use the report button in the app. Our Trust & Safety team reviews reports.
Sharing your location
Surfyx lets you share session photos and spot data — but you control what's visible. Check your privacy settings if you don't want your sessions linked to a specific location. Be especially mindful when sharing content from fragile or lesser- known breaks where a crowd could damage the environment or local community relationships.
Account safety
Use a strong password. Enable two-factor authentication where available. Never share your login credentials. If you think your account has been compromised, contact us immediately via the contact page.
More resources
- Accessibility — how Surfyx supports surfers with different abilities.
- Business Responsibility — what we expect from instructors, schools, and shops operating on the platform.
- Help Center — everything else.
Report unsafe content or behaviour
If you see something on Surfyx that puts someone at risk, use the report button in the app — or contact us directly.