SCUBAHUB
Return to the water get dive fit
BSAC IS ENCOURAGING ITS MEMBERS TO start preparing for a return to diving once Covid restrictions are lifted by ensuring they are dive fit .
The need to get ready to dive after a long winter layoff is standard for all divers . With many divers and snorkellers undergoing an enforced break in their in-water activities due to 12 months of restrictions and lockdowns , they are more likely to be less ‘ dive fit ’ once the diving season re-starts .
BSAC , the rescue services and other diving organisations are highlighting the increased risks and the importance of preparing for the start of a new diving season . BSAC has now published and will continue to develop more detailed guidance on how , in the current environment , all divers can prepare for a safe return to diving activity and minimise the risks of encountering an incident . BSAC Safety & Development Manager , Jim
Early spring , consistent with the start of the diving season , typically sees an initial peak of incidents , as illustrated by the BSAC Incident Report 2019
– bsac . com / incidentreport
Watson , said now was the time to prepare for a safe return to the water , taking into consideration some of the limitations and restrictions that may still be in place .
“ As Covid-19 restrictions are eased , the first steps are likely to be to open up outdoor activities where the risk of spreading the virus are much lower . The traditional opportunities to refresh skills , check out equipment and practice skills in a controlled environment like swimming pools are likely to be less available as restrictions ease ,” Jim explained .
“ BSAC is , therefore , compiling more detailed guidance on how , in the current environment , all divers can prepare for a safe return to diving activity and minimise the risks of encountering an incident .”
Are you ready to dive ?
The new online guidance section provides essential advice on getting fit to dive , including :
Personal fitness and preparation Take steps to prepare yourself physically and mentally for a time when you are able to resume diving . Start slowly with a level of exercise that suits you , then build on it slowly .
Diving medicals In the current pandemic , there is an additional requirement to identify whether you have suffered from Covid-19 . See opposite page .
Equipment Make arrangements to have your equipment serviced in plenty of time . Not every service centre may be open at this time and travel restrictions may impact on your ability to visit any centre that is open . If you are able to book a slot , it will help to ensure there are no unnecessary delays .
Start slowly Plan your initial dives to allow yourself time to build up to an appropriate level of depth and challenge of a dive , avoiding strong tidal effects and decompression penalties .
Skills practice Plan to refresh and practise skills in a controlled environment before undertaking more adventurous dives . Buoyancy control and DSMB deployment are frequently key skills implicated as factors contributing to incidents .
Dive planning Plan dives for yourself and others that take account of recent experience and the need to practice skills .
Weather and conditions Monitor weather conditions in advance , try to avoid spring tides for initial sea dives and be aware that water temperatures may be cooler than you expect .
This advice will be developed and supported with additional resources for instructors and divers over the coming months .
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