Autumn storms in socal and the right-coast alike, recently flushed the stormdrains of seven months of wretched run-off. So, don’t be a hero and be the only idiot surfing the day the rivermouth pukes out untreated sewage. Wait a 72hrs, and take a free lesson in common sense viral defense.
Tip #1: Surf Up-Current of Spewing Run-Off Sources
For example: if you’re surfing Santa Cruz, and the San Lorenzo River is having a heavy flow day during a NW swell, there’s a good chance you’ll find some floaters at The Lane and Pleasure Point. Cruise north up HWY 1 to Natural Bridges for safer waters. So good luck to the surfers in the Cold Water Classic right now.The reverse applies for SW swells during a storm.
Tip #2: Fight Toxins with Toxins
Add a bottle of rubbing alcohol and hydrogen peroxide to your surf bin. Give a post session gargle of these antibacterials, and flush scabs, ears or other openings where bacteria can enter your body (yep, even there). Oh ya, rinse your urine-drenched wetsuit too, it stinks.
Tip #3: Preemptive Immunities and Fast Action
Bolster your immune system with extra doses of vitamin-c rich OJ, and coconut water which fights parasites, and keeps your body hydrated when you need it most.
Most importantly if redness or soft tissue lesions worsen, have doctor check it immediately. Nobody’s immune system (or ego) can fight these viruses alone, neither can most antibiotics. 50% of the US population already carries a strain of MRSA, making the odds of surfers carrying staph much higher.
Remember, dabbling with disease never impresses the ladies.
Still think you’re to tough to wait 72 hrs? Check Surfrider’s safety guide or just google “Timmy Turner”.
Surf smart, shop SWELL
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