Mastering Extended Range Diver Emergencies: How to Stay Calm and What to do
August 25, 2023
Exploring the depths of the aquatic realm as an Extended Range diver is captivating and exhilarating. But as you plunge into this challenging activity, preparedness is your lifeline. Emergencies can surface unexpectedly, and you must be equipped to handle them calmly and with confidence. In this guide, we will empower you with insights about the most common Extended Range diving emergencies, ensuring you stay calm and in control if a critical situation arises.
Common Extended Range Diver Emergencies.
1.Equipment Malfunction
In the world of technical diving, your equipment is your trusty companion. However, even the most reliable gear can falter. Regulator failure, inflator hose mishaps, and cylinder valve failure are common issues. Make sure you inspect your diving equipment regularly and ensure it undergoes routine maintenance. Even then, make sure you are also prepared to handle unexpected malfunctions.
2. Decompression Sickness (DCS).
As an Extended Range diver, you will venture deeper and stay longer underwater than recreational divers, which increases the risk of DCS.DCS occurs when nitrogen bubbles form in the body’s tissues during ascent.These nitrogen bubbles can cause joint pain, fatigue, and neurological symptoms. Knowing what to look out for and how to react can be a lifesaver.
3. Gas Supply Problems.
Using multiple cylinders and gas mixes are part of your Extended Range dive adventures, but they increase the risk of gas supply problems. Common issues include running out of gas, gas leaks, or cylinder switching difficulties.
4. Entanglement.
Exploring wrecks and caves, a hallmark of Extended Range diving, can pose entanglement risks. Lines and underwater obstacles may ensnare you, so make sure you are prepared and know what to do if you or your buddy gets entangled.
How to React to Extended Range Diving Emergencies.
1. Stay Calm.
The most important thing to do during an Extended Range diving emergency is to stay calm. Panic can make the situation worse and lead to poor decision making. So, take a deep breath, assess the situation,and stay focused on solutions.
2. Communicate.
As an Extended Range diver, you will have a pre-dive plan and will have established communication signals before entering the water. In emergencies, clear communication with your buddy or team is vital. Use hand signals, lights, or other devices to start working on a solution to your emergency.
If you want to build on your technical diving skills and learn more about communication in a workshop environment, consider undertaking an Extended Range Foundations Diver program.
3. Take action.
Acting quickly and decisively is essential in an emergency. You have been trained to use emergency procedures and know what to do, so stay calm and start implementing your procedures.
This might be switching to a backup regulator, deploying a delayed surface marker buoy, or switching to a different gas mix. If you need help, signal to your buddy or team so you can work together to resolve the problem.
4. Prioritize Safety.
Extended Range diving emergencies can be stressful, and it is easy to become solely focused on the immediate problem. However, you also need to prioritize safety and think about the potential long-term consequences of your actions. For example, if you are low on gas, do not push the limits of your dive time to try to reach your planned depth. Instead, ascend safely and surface with an adequate gas supply.
5. Get help.
Sometimes, outside help is necessary. If you suspect DCS, seek medical attention promptly. Make sure you have an emergency assistance plan for every dive, such as knowing the location of the nearest decompression chamber or emergency services.
Being an Extended Range diver brings excitement and challenges, but also the potential for emergencies. With training, the right equipment, and a resilient mindset, you can navigate these situations safely and with confidence.
Remember to:
- Stay calm.
- Communicate with your buddy.
- Take action.
- Prioritize your safety.
- Get help.
Bystaying focused, working together with buddies or teams, and staying alert to potential hazards, you can enjoy the thrill of technical diving with confidence.
If you want to elevate your dive skills and preparedness further, explore the world of SSI Extended Range training. SSI offers the most comprehensive range of technical diving programs in the industry, allowing you to follow your passion, hone your technical dive skills, and explore the deepest reaches of the ocean.