SSF Covid-19 Statement – Phase 1

Following the First Minister’s statement on the 28th of May 2020 you will be allowed to undertake exercise and outdoor activity in your local area. Further information on the Scottish Government’s approach to managing covid-19 is available at:

www.gov.scot/coronavirus-covid-19

So, if you do decide to go surfing in Scotland from the 29th of May 2020, Scottish Surfing Federation advice is as follows:

– MAINTAIN APPROPRIATE PHYSICAL DISTANCING & HYGIENE

At all times surfers should adhere to the Scottish Government’s social distancing guidelines of staying at least 2m away from others including before, during and after surfing

– ONLY USE YOUR OWN EQUIPMENT & AVOID COMMON TOUCHPOINT SURFACES

Don’t borrow your friend’s board or wetsuit and when you are surfing try to avoid touching things like gates, door handles and handrails

– SURF WITHIN YOUR LIMITS

Know your own ability, the conditions and be familiar with the spots you choose to surf. You should only surf if you are competent. There won’t be any lifeguard cover on the few beaches in Scotland which sometimes do have and Coastguard response times may be longer than usual.

– STAY LOCAL

Travel restrictions outlined by the Scottish Government should always be adhered to by surfers which currently advises that exercise should be undertaken within 5 miles of your home. The latest advice can be found on the Scottish Government website.

– AVOID CROWDING SPOTS

If there are people already surfing it is advised to wait or choose another spot to surf to ensure physical distancing can be maintained. Park your car away from others and try to leave a spot as promptly as possible after surfing.

IMPORTANT: Do not leave your home to undertake exercise or outdoor activity if Scottish Government advice means you should stay at home because you or someone you live with has or has had symptoms of COVID-19, or you are in the most vulnerable category and have been advised to shield from the coronavirus. People who are shielding should not go surfing. People who are symptomatic should self-isolate for 7 days; household members for 14 days as per info on NHS guidance. No one who is self-isolating should be surfing.