Scuba Diving

Scuba diving has become a well known sport over the last few years. It is highly popular in areas such as those around the great barrier reef for example. The term scuba actually come from the first letters of Self-Contained Underwater Breathing Apparatus. When scuba diving there are many pieces of equipment needed. This equipment includes a face mask, wet suit, flippers, watch, and air tank. The air tank are compressed air cylinders that are connected to a mouth piece to provide a constant air supply, when under water. The air that is given off by the tank is regulated so that it is at the same pressure as the water. The air that is exhaled floats to the top of the water in little bubbles. The amount of time you can remain underwater is determined by the capacity of your air tank and the depth which you are diving. Do not worry about buying the necessary equipment, most water sports shops hire out the equipment needed for a safe scuba diving experience. Most scuba divers wear an aqualung with a life jacket and two air tanks, this is for emergency surfacing.

However because scuba diving is a dangerous sport it is generally required that you take a training course with a fully qualified instructor. Many stores will not hire out any equipment to a person they believe is untrained or inexperienced. To get involved in a course it will be required that you are a competent and experienced swimmer, you will most likely also need to have a medical examination to make sure you are physically healthy enough to deal with scuba diving.

When you are ready to go scuba diving there are some safety precautions to take especially when underwater. Never attempt to dive alone, you should at least dive with one other person, remember you may face a life or death situation when underwater and that one person could be the factor between a successful dive or a fatal one. Both you and your fellow divers should be trained in lifesaving skills. Before you even enter the water make sure all your equipment is working. When diving remember to stay calm even if the unexpected happens if you panic underwater it could be fatal, so remember you must remain calm and always breath.

When you choose a place to dive from make sure there are no extra safely precautions needed to be taken. Some places may have some hazards. If you are diving from a boat make sure you show a blue and white flag this shows that there are divers in the water. Make sure that the boat you are diving from has a radio or some form of communication that has a good range so if there is a problem they will be able to call out for assistance. Make a plan before going diving and stick to it, if a diver does not emerge from the water promptly, signal for help straight away, it is always best to be safe than to be sorry. Do not dive in areas where there are sharp rocks and a lot of seaweed. Carry a knife with a floating handle in case you get caught in any seaweed and need to cut yourself free. Underwater fishing is a sport that many scuba divers enjoy, however make sure you never fire a spear gun in the direction of another diver or directly below yourself.

Scuba diving is a fun sport to try, however remember to be safe and follow all the rules and regulations. The sea is unpredictable and the unthinkable can always happen. You should always be prepared for anything. Remember being over prepared is better than being unprepared.