Scuba divers are at risk of injury from wildlife, equipment failure and human error every time they get in the water. At the same time, scuba diving is rewarding and worth pursuing. Knowing how to take care of yourself in the water can make scuba diving safe and enjoyable.
Make sure that you are fit and healthy enough to participate in scuba diving. If you are older or have medical conditions, check with your physician before taking the plunge. Scuba diving demands a great deal from your body, so you want to be prepared.
Being scuba dive certified isn't always necessary when scuba diving on vacation, but being certified is definitely safer. A scuba dive certification will ensure that you are armed with the knowledge required to operate your equipment and get out of a dangerous situation.
Before you scuba dive, check the weather report. Conditions can change quickly, and being caught in a storm is less than desirable.
You should also make sure that your scuba gear is in working order before you dive. Check it before each time you go and make sure that all straps are secure (so they don't get tangled in either you or anything under the water). It should also fit properly for safety and comfort purposes. You may want to carry a dive knife to cut yourself out of tangles, such as seaweed.
Always dive with someone. Having a dive buddy means that there is someone else looking out for you and that you'll have some help in the event something goes wrong.
Don't drink before diving. Obviously you don't want your judgment or abilities to be impaired, but drinking can also cause you to dehydrate quickly. You should also drink plenty of water before and after scuba diving.
As you can imagine, having a reliable air supply is vital to diving. Be certain that you are able to read your equipment so that you know when it is time to head back to the surface (you should be doing this by 500 p.s.i.). Coming back up at the appropriate time will keep you from ascending too quickly. Ascending too quickly can be serious to your health and possibly even fatal. If you do find that you have ascended too quickly you'll have to go to a decompression chamber.
Never hold your breath when scuba diving. Holding your breath underwater can lead to lung injury.
As you ascend keep your eyes out for boats that may be approaching. When you do surface, do so a little ways away from the dive boat and only swim toward it when you are sure that it isn't moving and that somebody on the boat sees you.
Following these safety tips will help you to avoid getting into a dangerous situation. Remember that if you are out with a dive operator, always follow her advice. Dive operators are experienced and they want you to have a safe and pleasurable diving experience.
 | Scuba diving can be a lifelong passion or a resort getaway sport. Visit a local dive store to find out about the certifications you'll need and don't stock up on gear right away. You can rent gear and build your personal collection over time. |
The history of scuba diving is short but sweet. Learn about the most important pioneers. |
Scuba diving certification requires a lot of training and the right know how. |
 | Scuba diving lessons are the only way to prepare yourself for open water scuba diving. |
 | The history of scuba diving begins with simplicity and ends with technological marvels. |
