Surfing Injuries Requiring First Aid in New Zealand, 2007-2012

Authors

Kevin Moran, The University of AucklandFollow
Jonathon Webber, The University of AucklandFollow

DOI

https://doi.org/10.25035/ijare.07.03.03

Disciplines

Exercise Physiology | Exercise Science | Health and Physical Education | Kinesiology | Leisure Studies | Other Rehabilitation and Therapy | Outdoor Education | Recreation Business | Sports Management | Sports Sciences | Sports Studies | Tourism and Travel

Abstract

In an island nation such as New Zealand with easy access to surf beaches, surfing activities are very popular and, while generally perceived as a healthy form of outdoor recreation, they do have attendant risks. This study reports on nondrowning, surfing-related incidents that required medical first aid on beaches during five summer seasons from 2007-2012. Retrospective descriptive analysis of data from lifeguard first aid reports found that 16% (n = 1,327) of injuries were the consequence of surfing activity. More males than females were treated for surfing injuries (68% male, 31% female). Lacerations (59%) and bruising (15%) accounted for most of the injuries. The head was the most common site of injury (32%) and most injuries were caused by contact with the victims own board (50%). Ways of promoting surf safety via equipment modification, the use of protective head gear, the management of surfing activity by lifeguards, and public education are discussed.

Recommended Citation

Moran, Kevin and Webber, Jonathon (2013) "Surfing Injuries Requiring First Aid in New Zealand, 2007-2012," International Journal of Aquatic Research and Education: Vol. 7: No. 3, Article 3.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.25035/ijare.07.03.03
Available at: https://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/ijare/vol7/iss3/3