If in doubt... keep out! These are the words etched on the minds of those taught to surf by one of Britain's top coaches. It's a message that has undoubtedly helped save lives. Surfing's growing popularity as an extreme sport has lured thousands to take their first steps to master the waves. But, for many, what should be a fun experience can turn out to be a washout.

Potential dangers lurk at every turn. especially for those venturing into the breakers for the first time. Rip currents, cold water and crowds can prove to be a lethal mix. Lifeguards have reported a huge surge in rescues involving people with surf and boogie boards already this year. But with a little bit of know-how and expert tuition, surfing can be one of the most remarkable experiences of your life.

Martin Ward, a qualified British Surfing Association coach, lifeguard and competition surfer, has been teaching the basics of surfing and sea safety to rookie waveriders for over 15 years, both here in Britain and abroad. Based on Cornwall's north coast, Martin has learnt that a little common sense can be the difference between life and death.

"We're expecting a very busy summer because of the huge numbers of people trying surfing for the first time. Lifeguards are having to carry out more rescues because people aren't following basic safety advice. Wherever waves break there will be rip currents. If you are a novice or beginner that can spell trouble especially if you aren't aware of where they are and how to use rips to your advantage."

Martin, who has lived around the treacherous St Agnes coastline all his life, says knowing your limitations is very important. "Don't surf alone and always ask local surfers about the waves before you go in. They'll be able to let you know the safest time to go in. Also knowing your abilities is very important. Surfing has this very macho image, but if you are a novice don't pretend you're not."

With an estimated 50,000 plus surfers in Britain, Martin is keen to encourage those new to the sport to have surfing lessons from a qualified teacher. "Experienced surfers are usually pretty competent in the water, but one thing that is often missed is swimming ability. If you lost contact your surfboard or boogie board 100 yards out at sea would you be able to swim to shore and retrieve it? Not knowing the answer could put your life at risk and those of others around you."

Martin has five basic rules for safe surfing:

1. Check the sea conditions, including the tide and weather.
2. Speak to local people about where it is safe to surf.
3 Make sure you are physically up to the challenge of surfing.
4. Sign up for surfing lessons at an accredited surf school.
5. Take notice of what the beach lifeguards say.

"It's very easy to go into a shop, buy all the equipment you need for surfing, and then take off into the waves up to 8 feet high. That's an awful lot of water to deal with. Surfing is an extreme sport and it should be treated that way."

Useful links
Have Surf Board Will Travel
Surfing Around
Surf Travel Trail - May
British Surf Association
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