Beginner Scuba Diving Tips Every Diver Should Know

March 14, 2018

Scuba diving is an exhilarating experience. There’s nothing quite like exploring the depths of the ocean or a river at eye level.
New scuba divers might be apprehensive in the beginning, but good scuba instruction will quickly set aside any fears. There is no substitute for professional instruction, but here are some beginner scuba diving tips to keep in mind as you begin exploring a whole new world underwater.

Beginner Scuba Diving Tips

Have your scuba diving equipment at the ready

Some divers get caught up in the excitement before a dive. Don’t rush through your dive prep. Maintain and check your dive gear regularly, so there are no surprises right before a trip. Go through your checklist of gear, and don’t forget to bring repair parts or spares. Snapping a fin strap on the boat can happen. But having something like a “Save-A-Dive” kit made up of repair parts will not mean a premature end to your adventures.

Beginner Scuba Diving Tips

Know and follow the laws

According to the Florida State Statute 327.73, scuba divers could face a fine of up to $50 and a non-criminal violation when they fail to follow the dive flag laws. The dive flags laws require divers to stay within 100 feet of a divers-down flag or buoy.
Additionally, those operating a boat or other vessel are required to stay 100 feet or more away from a divers-down flag or buoy, when possible. These laws help to protect divers from being hit by vessels and also help to protect boaters.

Never go scuba diving alone

You never know when you’re going to be in an emergency situation. For this reason, it’s important to always have a dive buddy. Not only can a dive buddy assist you in the event of a mishap, but they can also notify emergency services for further help.

As part of a good dive plan, leave your destination, and departure and return times with one or more responsible persons. In the event something prevents you and/or your dive buddy from contacting help, these people will have the information necessary to start a search.

Millions love and go scuba diving every year. Bill Jackson’s has been teaching scuba diving since the 1950’s, when store founder Bill Jackson made instruction a part of the store experience. If you have questions, contact the full-service Dive Shop today.