In every scuba class across the world, new divers are taught to evaluate the diving conditions prior to suiting up for the dive. But, what exactly are divers supposed to be looking for?
The very first thing every diver needs to look for in evaluating dive conditions starts with a look into the mirror. What are you comfortable with? Do you have the training, knowledge, and experience to make the dive you are contemplating? Now look inward at that inner diver, how do you feel both physically and mentally? If the answer is no to any of these questions, make your dive into the local Denny’s restaurant instead.
Now look over at your buddy. Do they have the training, knowledge and experience to make the dive? Ask them how they feel; is everything all right? Remember that if your buddy has a problem, you have a problem.
Now double check your equipment. Are there any broken straps or missing gear? With most experienced divers, it is the equipment problems that mess up most dives.
Equipment good?
Buddy good?
You are good?
Now you can take a look at the water. It is funny. Most new divers start at the water first and skip the first round of questions. It is a good idea to evaluate water conditions before you suit up. Evaluating the water conditions in your street clothes makes you more objective than those divers who drive for two hours, suit up and run to the waters edge to evaluate the conditions. They are never very objective.
Ask other divers what they experienced underwater. First hand knowledge is always the best. Try to make sure the scuba divers you talk to are not Open Water divers making their first dive; everything looks good to them.
Things you should consider:
Temperature
Bottom composition
Weather
Currents
Visibility
Waves
If conditions are not good, it is best to do something else. Diving in poor or dangerous conditions is not going to be fun.
Make sure you have an exit strategy just in case things change during the dive. One time we were diving off of Catalina Island along the southern California coast and the rock entry was being pounded by six foot waves. None of the divers knew about the sand beach over to the right about 100 yards! These divers were trying to climb out on the jetty as the waves broke over their head. ALWAYS have an exit strategy.
Remember, it is your decision and your responsibility to make the call about your capabilities, equipment, buddy, and conditions.
Greg Deskin has been a PADI Course Director and has taught SCUBA Diving for over 20 years. With thousands of certified students, he has been asked many questions about scuba and scuba equipment. You can visit his scuba lesson website at http://www.Scuba-Info.com
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