You got your diving certification, you have your diving equipment and now you can’t stand the desire to make your first dive outing. And yes, surely the certification process did a review of all the basics, but there are still other realities that an informed diver should know. This article will highlight the precautions observed by prudent divers around the world.
• Despite the fun and excitement of diving, this sport can be risky without proper training and knowledge of the open sea. It is important to note that, before attempting to dive in the open sea in any way, you must be properly certified and you must not attempt to dive without instruction.
• Find a partner, never dive alone.
• Never hold your breath while diving, as you should breathe normally to avoid hyperventilation or dizziness. Holding your breath while ascending can result in excessive expansion of the lungs and result in serious injury or death.
• There are some species that you should avoid anyway, such as sea snakes, which have a deadly poison. Plants can also be dangerous, since they cut through the wetsuit material very easily. Bleeding in the ocean can attract other organisms that live in plants and corals such as eels and other predators.
• If you dive in shark-infested waters and get a bleeding wound, get out of the water, bandage the wound as soon as possible and seek medical help based on the severity of the wound.
• Never enter the water near a pier or jetty.
• Never ignore a pain or discomfort. If you do not feel well, do not dive or cancel the diving trip if you feel too much discomfort.
Written by DivingBarbados.com Staff!