5 Essential Pre-dive Safety Check Steps
When preparing to dive into the ocean, the most important thing is to conduct a pre-dive safety check with your dive buddy. From putting on your dive gear to starting your dive, many unexpected situations can arise. If any issues occur, it is better to identify and address them before diving rather than encountering them underwater. So, let’s start the five pre-dive safety checks.
1. Check Air Supply
Simply checking your pressure gauge does not guarantee that your tank is full. In the first safety check, you must breathe through your second stage regulator while checking the pressure gauge. If the needle drops significantly with each breath, it indicates that the tank valve is closed. You can have your buddy help open the tank valve. If the gauge fluctuates up and down while breathing, it means the valve is only partially open. Again, ask your buddy to fully open the tank valve. Also, check your alternate air source by breathing through it, and familiarize yourself with its location on your buddy. This helps you find it quickly in an out-of-air emergency.
2. Buoyancy Control Device (BCD)
Inflate your BCD and check for any leaks. Have your buddy inspect your BCD and compare it with others to see if there are any significant differences. Ensure that your low-pressure inflator hose is in the same place as theirs. Familiarize your buddy with your gear setup on the surface so they can assist you more easily underwater if needed. Remember to keep your BCD inflated at the surface until you start your descent.
3. Turn On Dive Computer
Ensure your dive computer is turned on and functioning properly. Check that it has enough battery life for the dive and that the strap is securely fastened. Finally, verify that the gas settings are correct to avoid incorrect no-decompression time during the dive.
4. Confirm Dive Equipment is Complete
Before entering the water, make sure you have all your personal and dive equipment, including your mask, fins, snorkel, weights, and any other gear you need for the dive.
5. Choose the Best Entry Method
Choose the best entry method for your dive environment. This could be a backward roll, giant stride, or simply walking in from the shore. The pre-dive safety check is crucial at the start of every dive. It allows you to confirm that your gear is complete and ready. These steps should be followed to identify and address any potential issues before entering the water and to familiarize yourself with your buddy’s equipment and setup. Always take a few seconds to check these items before diving! Do not skip the pre-dive safety check!
