Safety Tips

General Diving Safety

Always dive with a buddy and maintain visual contact throughout the dive.
Plan your dive and dive your plan. Discuss the dive plan with your buddy before entering the water.
Stay within your training and experience level. Don't attempt dives beyond your capabilities.
Monitor your air supply frequently and end your dive with sufficient air remaining.
Ascend slowly (30 feet per minute or slower) and perform a safety stop at 15-20 feet for 3-5 minutes on every dive.
Stay hydrated before and after diving to reduce the risk of decompression sickness.
Wait at least 24 hours after diving before flying or traveling to higher elevations.

Before every dive, perform a thorough equipment check using the acronym BWRAF (sometimes remembered 'Barf Will Really Attract Fish'):

B - BCD (Buoyancy Compensator Device): Check that it inflates and deflates properly, and that the tank is securely attached.
W - Weights: Ensure you have the correct amount of weight and that it's properly secured.
R - Releases: Familiarize yourself with all quick-release mechanisms (weight belt, BCD, etc.) and ensure they're functioning.
A - Air: Check that your tank is full, the valve is fully open, and your regulator and alternate air source are working correctly.
F - Final Check: Do a final once-over of all your gear, including mask, fins, exposure suit, and any accessories.

Remember to also check your dive computer or depth gauge and timing device before entering the water.

Be aware of sudden temperature changes and thermoclines, especially in deep lakes like Jocassee.
Watch for submerged trees, branches, and other obstacles that can cause entanglement.
Be cautious of boat traffic, especially near the surface. Use a dive flag to signal your presence.
In low visibility conditions, maintain close contact with your buddy and use a guideline if necessary.
Be prepared for varying water clarity, which can change with depth and seasonal conditions.

Pay attention to underwater structures and sunken objects, which can have sharp edges.
Be aware of potential overhead environments and avoid penetration without proper training.
Watch for sudden depth changes, especially near quarry walls.
Be prepared for colder temperatures at depth, even on warm days.
Follow all site-specific rules and guidelines, as each quarry may have unique hazards.

Check tide tables and be aware of tidal currents, especially when diving near passes like Perdido Pass.
Be cautious of marine life, including jellyfish and potentially dangerous fish species.
Watch for changing weather conditions and be prepared to end the dive if conditions deteriorate.
Use appropriate exposure protection, as water temperatures can vary significantly with seasons.
Be aware of boat traffic and use a surface marker buoy (SMB) during ascents.
For beach entries like at the Whiskey Wreck, be cautious of waves and surf conditions.

Being prepared for emergencies is crucial for safe diving. Here are some key procedures to remember:

Signal your buddy immediately using the "out of air" hand signal (Typically a flat hand waved against the neck, much like telling someone to be quiet)
Share air using your buddy's alternate air source or perform a controlled emergency swimming ascent.
Ascend slowly while exhaling continuously (It can help to continuously hum, which forces you to exhale without much thought)

If you or your buddy experience any of these symptoms after a dive:

Take the following steps:

Emergency Services: 911
Nearest Hyperbaric Chamber: Research prior to dive, varies
Coast Guard (research, can also vary, suggested):
- Southeast (D7) - Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina: (305) 415-6800
- Heartland (D8) - Rest of the South: (504) 589-6225
For maritime emergency use only

Remember, the best way to handle emergencies is to prevent them through proper planning, training, and adherence to safe diving practices.