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ScubaTutor wants your next dive trip to be exhilarating and safe. We provide access to a wide array of both new and used equipment as well as good how to info. To address some of the Scuba Gear check issues we have brought in an expert article by Bill Seal to give you:
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SCUBA Gear Check - 5 Steps to the Pre-Dive Safety Check
Let's face it. SCUBA is a gear-intensive sport. There's lots of equipment therefore, lots of potential problems. It's important that you have good quality gear and maintain it properly. Now, if you do a good pre-dive safety check you eliminate most potential problems. Do this with a buddy so each of you can check the other's gear at the same time.
Step 1: Check the Buoyancy Compensator.
Check that your auto inflation button works. Go ahead and inflate your BC until it's a little more full than you want it before you enter the water. Next, check your deflation mechanism. Let some air out until you have the BC inflated enough that you float when you enter the water.
Step 2: Check the Weight System
Make sure the weight system is functional. If you're using a weight belt, make sure there are no twists and the weight is distributed evenly. It should be clear of all other gear. Make sure the buckle is positioned for a right hand release and the extended belt is not tangled or encumbered in any way.
If you're using an integrated system, make sure the weights are actually in the system. Make sure both of you understand exactly how to release the weights. Different BC manufacturers have differing systems.
Step 3: Check Your BCD and Tank Straps
Check the BCD quick release buckles. Make sure they are actually snapped closed. Make sure the straps are snug. I've seen divers slide right out of their BC when they entered the water. Another very common but more dangerous problem is the tank band. Make sure it's snapped shut securely. Sometimes the heating or cooling during transport can cause the tank to loosen in the band. It can slide up during entry and strike the back of the head. Or it can slide down and strike someone's foot while on the boat or shore.
Step 4: Check Your Air and Regulator
At this point you should have opened your Tank Valve. Check that it's fully open and there are no leaks. Listen for air leaks at the tank valve. Test breathe your regulator. Watch your tank pressure gauge while you do this. If the pressure drops quickly, your tank valve is either closed or barely open. Make sure your tank is full.
Next, make sure your buddy knows where your alternate air source is. Make sure you know where your buddy's is. Test breathe both. Make sure they're secured in place. One common problem is a back-up regulator that is dangling and either gets fouled with sand or entangles the diver.
Step 5: Final Check
Next, do a final once over. Make sure all your other gear is on and unencumbered. Snorkels may be hung up in the BC, mask straps may be twisted, you may still be wearing your hat. Once the final check is done you're ready to enter the water.
When you're both in the water you should do another final check on or near the surface before beginning the dive proper.
Learn more about breathing, snorkeling, diving, photography and all things SCUBA at http://zendiving.org
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bill_Seal
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6444793
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Thanks to Bill for his interesting and useful article on diving safety checks.
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