Basics of safe diving

The study and analysis of diving accidents allows us to conclude that all of them have common origins and similar schemes. They can be predicted and avoided with common sense, proper skills and knowledge of safety basics.

DO NOT GIVE IN TO PANIC

Panic is the most common reason for divers to die. Analysis of incidents shows that the life of a diver depends on the ability to keep cool and the mind. The ability to maintain control over themselves with good health and thorough training allows the diver to find a way out of any, sometimes the most confusing and difficult situation.

There is no single reason to panic. As a rule, it arises and grows from a dream of small problems that have fallen on the diver. People have a certain comfort zone, in which it exists and within which it operates, a kind of ball. If everything goes perfectly, the person remains in the middle of this zone. But with the appearance of any troubles, he moves away from the center.

Let’s assume that your mask skirt began to let water pass – you have already moved away from the center. Plus, the current was stronger than you expected, and your removal increased. And if you are not in the best shape, the speed of your approach to the borders of the comfort zone increases. There is a risk of hitting the shell of the ball, which may burst.

REMEMBER THE “LAW OF VILLAGE”

If an unpleasantness can happen, it is sure to happen; where it is thin, it tears. As applied to diving, this means that inadequate training, poor preparation, lack of planning, poor condition of the equipment – any of the above, and sometimes all together – causes trouble.

GET READY TO SAVE YOURSELF

In order to preserve health and life during the dive, the most correct thing to do is to automate the skills to ensure your own safety in case of any problems. Conduct a kind of training, a game by asking the question: “What if…? Think about the behavior in different situations.

For example, how you will dive with a strong current. What will you do if you or your partner is carried by the current, or if you are on the surface away from the bot? Do you have enough signaling devices for different purposes and are they all in working condition? How do you intend to use them? And so on.

THERE ARE NO MINOR PROBLEMS

Problems that arise during a dive, even the most seemingly small ones, need to be solved immediately, as they tend to grow into larger ones. If you can’t fix the problem in the water, go up to the surface, don’t rely on the avos. If the mask began to leak water, there may be two reasons. One – the skirt fits loosely, and the second is much more serious – the rupture of this seal. And it’s better if you define it at a shallower depth than by sinking 40 meters.

THE INSTRUCTION IS NOT IN VAIN

Treat it responsibly. Pay attention to the points that you do not know well enough. Professional instructors and local dive guides are familiar with the specifics of the place, diving conditions, current schedule, even underwater fauna. Use their knowledge and skills to make your dive safe and enjoyable. Also listen carefully to the diveboat briefing, where you can learn about the actions of the ship’s crew in different circumstances. In critical situations, this information can be useful to you.

PROPERLY BUY THE EQUIPMENT

If your equipment is too overloaded, it may affect the buoyancy, prevent the correct location of the cargo, which will cause certain difficulties. From the additional equipment you should take only what you may need in case of danger, without excesses. It is recommended to take an audio device, a brightly colored inflatable buoy of large size, underwater light, as well as a whistle, small scissors and a special knife.

Make sure that all devices are in working condition and are properly laid. They should not interfere with your flowability and should not cling to anything. You should also have the opportunity to quickly use any item of equipment.

DIVER’S SAFETY IS A MATTER FOR THE DIVER HIMSELF

No one is better than you to take care of your safety. No one will dive for you, think for you, decide for you, make plans, etc. If you are not prepared at the proper level, no one will be able to save you. If you take responsibility for your actions, you will be able to save your life, cope not only with your own problems, but also help your partner if necessary. Your dives will be safe if you listen and take advantage of these tips and rules.