Archive for May, 2010

I’ve read a post about how, during a buddy check, one diver actually turned another’s air off and it was not detected until the dive had begun.  This should NOT have happened.

Most technical divers do all of their own checks.
They may ask for assistance but will generally ask that you do not touch their equipment in any way.

A simple buddy check uses 5 steps, performed together as a team before entering the water – as follows:

1.  BCD
Inflate your BCD fully – until you hear the over-inflate valve vent.

Johan and Jono before starting Pre Dive Safety Checks

Then check all your dump valves.  Shoulder, rear, on the inflator hose if you have one.  Ensure you know where they are and how to reach them.  Remember that air is lazy and will always escape from the highest point so you may need to use a different dump at different stages of the dive.

2.  Weights

Check that your weight belt is on or that your weight pockets are in the BCD (if you have integrated weights).

3.  Releases
Check the release clips on your buddy’s BCD.  Are they pinch clips or push clips?
Check to see if there is a drysuit hose to release, or a crotch strap.  Is there any other equipment that you may need to know how to remove.
At this stage, turn your buddy around and check that the tank band is secured.  Also check that the hoses and equipment is not tangled in any way.
Finally check that the tank is on.  Generally it will turn back (to the left)

4.  Air
Holding your gauges in front of you, take a few breaths from your regulators.  Watch the needle on the gauge.  It should not waver in any way (the tank may not be fully on) and the needle should not drop!
Know how to release your buddy’s alternate air source and take a few breaths from it.

5.  Final check
Ensure you have your mask, fins and snorkel.
Also check to see that you have all the equipment you want on the dive (camera, torch, slates etc).

As a last check, ask yourself and your buddy if you are ready to do this dive.

Remember that any diver can call out of a dive at any time – without peer pressure.  If it does not feel right, don’t dive.
There is always another day to dive.

When I am teaching, the PADI manuals use BWRAF – Begin With Review And Friend.
I like to use Blonde Women Really Are Fun – or for the kids, Burgers With Relish And Fries.