The key to a trouble free dive... | Summary

The key to a trouble free dive...

Make sure that you select dives that you are suitably competent and experienced for.

Scuba divers should dive conservatively, whether they are using dive tables or computers. Experienced divers often select a table depth (versus actual depth) of 10 feet (3 meters) deeper than called for by standard procedure.

This practice is highly recommended for all divers, especially when diving in cold water or when diving under strenuous conditions. Computer divers should be cautious in approaching no-decompression limits, especially when diving deeper than 100 feet (30 meters). Avoiding the risk factors noted above (deep / long dives, exercise at depth or after a dive) will decrease the chance of DCS occurring.

Exposure to altitude or flying too soon after a dive can also increase the risk of decompression sickness. Ensure you are well hydrated prior and subsequent to diving, something non-alcoholic such as water is ideal.

Practice your safety drills and familiarise yourself with your equipment. Ensure that it is well maintained. Every year we treat people following equipment malfunction/lack of familiarity and subsequent misuse.

Finally, there is evidence to support a link between PFO's (a hole in the heart), and increased risk of decompression illness.

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Summary

1. Never try a dive you're not comfortable with. During descent, you should gently equalize your ears and mask. At depth, never dive outside the parameters of the dive tables or your dive computer.
   
   
2. Never hold your breath while ascending. You should always ascend slowly while breathing normally.
   
   
3. Become familiar with the underwater area and its dangers. Learn which fish and other hazards to avoid so injuries do not occur. Be aware of local tides and currents.
   
   
4. Never panic under water. If you become confused or afraid during a dive, stop, try to relax and think the problem through. You can also get help from your dive buddy or dive master.
   
   
5. Never dive without a buddy.
   
   
6. Always plan your dive; then always dive your plan.
   
   
7. Where possible, stay within the no-decompression limits. Using mixed gases can help.
   
   
8. Be sure that your diving equipment can handle the dive you have planned and that the equipment is working well.
   
   
9. Don't drink alcohol or take drugs before diving.
   
   
10. Never dive while taking medicine unless your doctor has said it's safe.
    
    
11. Diving can be dangerous if you have certain medical problems. Ask your doctor how diving may affect your health.
    
    
12. Wreck and cave diving is dangerous and should only be attempted by divers with proper training and equipment.
    
    
13. If you don't feel good or if you are in pain after diving, report it immediately. At sea call the Coastguard, if you are back on shore, call us.
    
    
14. Don't fly for 12 hours after a no-decompression dive, even in a pressurized airplane. If your dive required decompression stops, don't fly for at least 24 hours.

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