Open Water Scuba Diver

The diver who has been too deep for too long and has made an inappropriate ascent without proper decompression may be suffering from decompression sickness. This condition is often recognized later, after the dive. Most cases are recognized within one hour but a delay of as much as 12 hours is possible. Once the problem […]

As a newly certified diver, you’ll have the basic knowledge and skills to start enjoying this recreational activity. However, if you don’t continue practicing and learning, those skills can fade, and it may take a dive or two to regain your comfort level. Scuba Educators International recommends making at least five dives per year to

The choice of entry will depend on the size of the boat. Most often the divers will enter at the back or stern of the boat from a platform that is near water level. The entry will most often be the standard giant stride entry. In some situations the back roll entry works well. Your

The Divemaster should describe the direction and speed of any current present at the dive site. You should listen carefully to these directions and plan the dive accordingly. Remember, you should initially swim against the current, so when you are lower on air and tired you can ride the current back to the boat.

Most dive boats have a place for all the dive cylinders in a rack or other stable location ready for you. Most resorts load all the tanks before you arrive. If the tanks are at bench level, do not place weights on the bench or they could fall on someone’s foot as the waves rock

Using scuba underwater we are always breathing on a limited air supply. This section will discuss the various alternatives you have in case your breathing supply is low or becomes exhausted. Running out of air can occur because of diver or buddy inattention or the remote chance of mechanical failure. In all cases, an appropriate

On a boat, having some level of communication can save the day. You might have run out of fuel and are drifting out to sea. Perhaps a member of your group has a medical issue and needs assistance. Or you simply want to tell folks back on shore to have lunch ready as you head