Have you done your predive safety checks?
Introduction
Hopefully, most of us remember this part of our open water course. Just after you’ve been explained all this alien looking equipment but before you actually get into the water. After all that they make you practice it before every dive!
Fundamentally it’s the same regardless of the agency you learned with but let us run through the SDI steps.
A. Air
Firstly, smell and taste the air. If there is any hint of oil or fuel or even bad food don’t use it
Remember to check the regs are breathing well. Breathe from them (don’t just hit the purge button). Both the primary and secondary should be checked fully. Basically, you want to ensure the diaphragm is not stuck which would make it breathe wet
Moreover, look at the gauge as you breathe to check the needle doesn’t move – plus that your air is fully on.
B. BCD
Next, inflate then deflate from the hose, orally inflate, pull the dump valves and listen for any leaks as you fill it up
Also look that the tank strap hasn’t slipped down and that all your clips are done and tight.
C. Computer
Make sure it is in the right mode and that the gas is the correct mix. Look at the battery. Everyone in the group should have their own computer on.
D. Dive gear
As long as you have your Weights, Fins, Mask, Snorkel (if using), Wetusit and Boots on your are set for the next step…
E. Enter
Enjoy your dive 🙂
Is this really important?
Well yes it is. However do not fall into the mistake of thinking the random person who was just assigned your buddy 2 seconds ago is going to check you efficiently. Don’t get me wrong, your buddy may be brilliant but at the end of the day you are responsible for your own safety and comfort.
Ideally, if you are diving with the same people regularly then you get used to each other; knowing when the other needs extra assistance or their quirky way of signing a nudibranch haha.
Additional points
If you have your own equipment you should get it checked regularly.
Be cautious and don’t dive with broken equipment or worn hoses.
Furthemore check the tanks you are using. See if they are within date of hydro. Have they been visually inspected recently?
Finally, do a quick self check in the shallows.
Contact us to know more
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OR email us; info@timordiveacademy.com
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