Have you ever dreamed of floating weightlessly like an astronaut, investigating unusual species like a field researcher, or looking for lost objects like a treasure hunter? If so, scuba diving may be the perfect activity for you! Scuba diving is relatively easy and only requires a short period of training to get started. Whether your goal in diving is fish watching, ocean conservation or simply meeting other adventurous people, 70% of the globe becomes accessible to you the moment you learn to breathe underwater!
If you’re thinking about taking the plunge into scuba diving with reputable ocean enterprise in san Diego or anywhere across the world here are a few things to keep in mind as you prepare for your first open-water dive.
Choose a good day to dive
The best days for diving are those with little or no wind, good visibility, and calm waters. Check the weather forecast before you head out, and if possible, choose a site that is sheltered from any potential weather conditions.
Get organized
Before you dive, take a few minutes to organize your gear. Make sure your tanks are full and your weights are properly distributed. If you’re diving with a partner, go over hand signals so you can communicate underwater.
Make a safety stop
After you complete your descent, it’s important to do a safety stop before resurfacing. This gives you time to equalize the pressure in your ears and prevent decompression sickness. Most safety stops are done at 15 feet (4.6 meters) for 3-5 minutes.
Get to know your equipment
Before you dive, it’s important to familiarize yourself with your scuba gear. Make sure you understand how all of the equipment works and practice using it in a swimming pool or shallow water. This will help you feel more comfortable and confident when you’re diving in deeper water.
Check your buoyancy
Once you’re in the water, it’s important to check your buoyancy. Make sure you’re neither floating too high in the water nor sinking too low. You should be able to maintain a comfortable position without kicking too much or using too much air.
Be aware of your surroundings
When you’re diving, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings at all times. Be on the lookout for other divers, dangerous animals, and underwater obstacles. If you see something that doesn’t look safe, avoid it.
Follow the dive leader’s instructions
When you’re diving with a group, it’s important to follow the dive leader’s instructions at all times. They are there to ensure your safety and help you have an enjoyable dive.
Breathe normally underwater
One of the most common mistakes beginner divers make is holding their breath while underwater. This can lead to a feeling of panic and can cause you to use up your air supply more quickly. Instead, remember to breathe normally and evenly while diving.
Don’t touch anything
While it can be tempting to touch the beautiful coral or fish you see while diving, it’s important to resist the urge. Most marine life is delicate and can be easily damaged by even the slightest touch. In addition, some animals may view you as a threat and could attack if you get too close.
Rise cautiously to the surface
When you’re ready to end your dive, it’s important to rise slowly and carefully to the surface. This will help prevent any sudden changes in pressure that could damage your lungs or ears. Be sure to keep an eye on your depth gauge and air supply so you know how much time and air you have left.
Scuba diving is a great way to explore the underwater world and can be a lot of fun. However, it’s important to remember that there are some risks involved. By following the tips above, you can help ensure that your first open-water dive is safe and enjoyable.
