SAFE DIVING CHECKLIST

Interview several divers to find someone who:

Is safety oriented
Has stayed current
Has similar diving interests

Dive the buddy system and stay with your buddy for the entire dive. Before the dive:

Regularly practice out-of-air techniques, perhaps in the pool
Practice hand signals
Discuss the dive plan
Thoroughly check out both sets of equipment prior to each dive

Take care of your equipment so it will take care of you. Have your equipment serviced by a reputable shop every year. Make sure your buddy has done the same.

Carry safety equipment. Diving safety is no accident, carry and practice using these items (depending on the specific dive):

Dive tool or knife
Above Water signaling device
Safety sausage
Underwater signaling device
Compass
Flashlight
Back-up timer or computer
Back up depth gauge or computer
Back up air gauge or computer
Redundant air system

Never dive deeper than the depth of your experience. Dive only in conditions that match my level of training and experience or better. If you want to dive in more advanced conditions, get additional training.

Always check your air. Constantly check your air gauge and start your assent before you are done to 500-700 pounds, depending on your personal consumption rate and the ambient conditions.

Never stretch the rules. Reference your dive tables and computer, but do not push the limits.

If you have doubt, get out. In dangerous conditions, postpone diving or go to an alternate location.
Always be learning. Dive education does not end with your Open Water Dive Certification. Take additional courses, particularly Rescue, and dive often to stay proficient.

This checklist is by no means all inclusive. Please email us if you have comments or suggestions. However, practicing the items on this list is a great start toward having the safest most enjoyable dives possible.

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