Scuba diving is the most incredible and enthralling way to explore the marine world. However, there are certain things that you should keep in mind while going for this life-changing experience. To minimize any risk, you need to follow some basic rules so that you can make the most of your time under the water.
We present here 10 golden rules of scuba diving that will surely come in handy during your dives.
Rule #1: Maintain a healthy state before a dive
The most crucial thing is to feel absolutely fine while going scuba diving. Having a hangover from last night or being too tired in the morning will ruin your entire experience. Avoid alcoholic drinks and get plenty of sleep because if you are not feeling fine right before your dive, you will be in a heightened state of getting the bends.
Rule #2: Do a safety stop
You should do a safety stop if you are diving deeper than 10 meters. You can do that when you reach the first 5 meters. Wait for 3 minutes before proceeding. This is done so that the nitrogen levels in your blood are lowered and your body adapts to the changes in pressure.
Rule #3: Practice continuous breathing
Even when you are under the water’s surface, you need to breathe like you normally do. Never hold air in your lungs as it may result in rupturing them from too much gas. The chances are even more during an ascent.
Rule #4: Bring along a buddy
Don’t go alone for a dive and take someone with you. You may encounter bad situations underwater that can be fixed by your buddy. Solo divers are surely at a risk.
Rule #5: Do not yo-yo dive
A yo-yo dive is when you, for instance, go down to 10 meters, go back up to 5 meters, and then go back down to 18 meters. While scuba diving, you should go to your predetermined depths and when necessary, take 3-minute breaks and then slowly come back up.
Rule #6: Never go beyond your limits
There are certain limits for every depth. For instance, for around 18 meters depth, you should not stay there for more than 50 minutes. Otherwise, you will be at risk of getting decompression sickness (also known as the bends). Always know the limits and regulations, and follow them.
Rule #7: Respect marine life
In order to ensure your safety as well as the safety of marine life, never get too close. In case your equipment is caught in the rocks, then it may get damaged, and marine animals like the moray eel can be dangerous when provoked.
Rule #8: Don’t ascend too fast
Fast refers to anything beyond 18 meters/minute. If you go faster than this, then you may get decompression sickness.
Rule #9: Keep an eye on your air pressure
Check the air pressure on the gauge regularly. You can make the best choices underwater only when you know the state of your equipment. It would be life-threatening if you run out of air at great depths. Check your air pressure more frequently if you are going for a deep dive.
Rule #10: Don’t dive beyond your training
Going beyond your certification training is definitely quite risky. For instance, if you are an open-water diver, then your maximum limit is 18 meters and you should not dive deeper than this.
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