Image by Alex Tyrell / Ocean Image Bank
When joining any new community, it can be difficult to figure out the important boundaries and guidelines that that group values, and scuba diving is no exception. When scuba diving, you are entering a new environment and there is a balance that needs to exist between having fun and being respectful towards fellow divers and the surrounding environment. We know how nerve racking this can be, so we put together a few important guidelines for beginners to consider before heading to the waters.
1. Do not meddle with another diver’s equipment
Scuba diving is one of the most expensive hobbies a person can have. Basic gear can cost thousands of dollars and repairs can cost hundreds, so many divers are protective of their gear. To put it bluntly, if you’re a new diver, do not mess with other people’s stuff. There are a lot of interesting gadgets that scuba divers can purchase to enhance their experience, so if you are curious about someone else’s gear, just ask them about it because most divers would love to show off all of their fun and useful toys. But, whatever you do, do not take it upon yourself to touch, move, rearrange, or try to use someone else’s equipment, especially without their permission.
2. Proper buoyancy techniques
Maintaining your buoyancy might be the key factor to being a successful and respectful diver. By ensuring that you have control over your body and your form you can avoid injuring wildlife, injuring fellow divers, and stirring up the sand, and silt on the bottom which ruins visibility for others. Learning to maintain your buoyancy can be tricky for new divers, but just remember to stay calm and channel your inner skydiver and you’ll improve with time.
3. Do not interfere with the wildlife — you are their guest, be respectful
Depending on who you ask, messing with the environment is the biggest no-no while diving. Not only can you harm the beautiful natural world that you came to visit, but you could also put yourself and others at risk because there is always the possibility that nature retaliates and fights back. Just remember to not get too confident or curious because you are guests in that environment.
4. Be mindful and aware of your surroundings
While diving, it is important to stay alert and aware of the world around you both above and below the water’s surface. Most dive boats are small and not very roomy, so don’t leave your gear and equipment lying around, keep your things organized and try to be respectful of others’ space. You also need to stay observant while underwater. No one likes being kicked in the head while tens of feet under water, and no one wants to see a coral injured because someone wasn’t paying attention to what’s around them. Make sure to keep a careful eye on your surroundings while diving in order to be successful and avoid injury or angering other divers.
Scuba diving can be intimidating, especially when you are with more experienced divers, but as long as you stay calm, cautious, and aware of your surroundings you will be okay, and don’t forget to have fun.
If you are looking to sharpen your diving skills or you are brand new to diving, contact us via phone, email, or visit us at our shop to register for our monthly Open Water Courses!