You should be familiar with the basics of scuba diving. These rules cover Safety, Equipment, Technique and Norms. To enjoy diving to its fullest, it is important that you understand these rules. Despite the fact that scuba diving is not as difficult as it looks, you can still make mistakes and end up hurting yourself.
Norms
The Norms for Scuba Diving are a set of rules that divers and snorkelers must follow when they are underwater. They were created to decrease the chances of getting decompression sick, which is caused by too much nitrogen being absorbed during a dive. These rules require divers to slow down to let the nitrogen absorbed escape. These rules can also reduce the likelihood of many scuba diving hazards.
Scuba diving requires you to have the right equipment. Check your equipment regularly to make sure it is in top condition. Scuba diving is a great sport that requires you to have a buddy. Also, you will need to create a checklist.
Equipment
Scuba diving equipment is essential for diving safely and comfortably. The basic equipment consists of a regulator and a tank. You can find tanks in many sizes. They have a maximum pressure around 2000 psi. Regulators can either be made of aluminum or steel and used to transfer high-pressure gas to ambient air. The regulator has two stages, a first stage that connects to the tank and a second stage that goes in the diver's mouth. The regulators also include gauges that show the tank's level of air.
Scuba equipment purchase is a long-term decision. If you dive only occasionally, renting equipment is a better and more affordable option. You might find renting equipment more cost-effective than purchasing extra baggage at the airport.
Technique
To ensure safety and comfort while diving, it is important to follow certain guidelines. Scuba divers should ensure they check their air gauges regularly, at minimum once during each dive. Divers who fail to do this could become susceptible to decompression syndrome. Also, divers should communicate the exact level of their air tanks with their dive partners.
It is important to breathe underwater slowly and in an even rhythm. Breathing underwater can lead to ruptures of the lung walls. It can also lead to arterial gas embolism which can be fatal. Divers must also be aware of current water conditions.
Safety
Avoid panic attacks and keep calm while scuba diving. You might have a fear of the dark or a phobia. However, you can still be safe by taking other safety precautions. First, let your instructor understand if anxiety is a concern. You can be prepared with hand signals or mental sayings to help with these fears. It is best to find a instructor who is gentle if your fear of water.
Wearing seat belts and helmets is another safety tip. You also need to be aware of your surroundings and always have a dive buddy. If something does go wrong, someone will be able help you to safety.
Recommendations for scuba diving beginners
A good tip for beginners diving is to stay hydrated. Dehydration can lead to decompression sickness, cramps, or reduced awareness. These side effects are preventable by drinking lots of water both before and after diving. Also, dehydration may increase your chance of getting nitrogen narcosis. This can be dangerous and require medical treatment.
Before diving, make sure your equipment is in good condition. Also, it is a good idea to dive with a buddy. This way, you can ask them if they are okay during the dive. It is a good idea to practice diving with your scuba gear. It is also advised to slow down when you are diving.