Basic Etiquette for Scuba DiversThere is the problem of applying anti-fogging compound to the lenses of the diving mask.
1. Saliva is the proper substance and should, as far as possible, avoid involving post-nasal drip. Saliva should be applied in the least noisy manner possible and with as little foreign matter (coffee grinds or other materials normally associated with unbrushed teeth) as possible.
2. The mask should be held in the diver’s own hands, close to his own face, while applying the compound.
3. A diver should only use one of his own hands to evenly spread the anti-fogging compound on the lenses of your mask and rinse that hand over the side before attempting last-minute cheek pinches, pats, squeezes or hugs.
4. Do rinse the mask after spreading the compound.
Since many divers are prone to seasickness, a few guidelines to help carry off bouts of this affliction with decorum are offered:
1. Never eat scratchy stuff. Stick to smooth, pleasant tasting basics that will not ferment or multiply in your stomach.
2. Enduring misery up on deck, in the fresh air, is usually more practical than below deck where the atmosphere may be contaminated with diesel fumes, fish bait or cooking odours.
3. Remember that divers usually get picked up on the leeward side (downwind) of the boat as the skipper normally uses the wind to drift onto the waiting divers. These swimmers would appreciate a warning well in advance.
Medical ConsiderationMedical ConditionsThere are some medical conditions that may exclude the diver from
Scuba Diving, some of these conditions are
- Seasickness
- Asthma
- Diabetes
- Drugs and Medications
- Alcohol
- Cigarettes
- Marijuana
- Menstruating Female
- Pregnancy
- Nervous system disorders
- Some cancers
- Hepatitis
- Malaria
With some, it is the condition itself, and others, it is the drugs that are given for the condition that exclude one from diving. Unfortunately, the medical profession doesn't give black and white answers and some of the conditions require the diver to accept the risk and responsibility for the decision. But, research is being conducted by various agencies around the world all the time and things do change from time to time.
Dive InsuranceIt is advised that all divers have their own
travel and diving insurance. In the very unlikely event of a problem, treatment for diving accidents can be expensive. The general travel insurance may cover diving, but one should check this before traveling.
When not to diveA person should not dive when he is:
- Uncertified
- Tired
- Dehydrated
- It is raining (with or without lightning)
- Sick, have sinus congestion, runny nose, fever, etc.
- Have trouble clearing the Eustachian tubes ("equalizing")
- Scuba gear is not working
- Nitrogen level is too high (take a surface interval)
- The water is choppy, rough or visibility is poor
- No buddy to dive with
- Under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Have preexisting health problems that may present hazards (see the doctor)
- Short of breath, asthmatic or have problems with allergies.
By Wikitravel
