Pushpitha Wijesinghe
Diving gurus all over the world have accepted that diving requires safety checks which should be made without fail before you take that plunge! Five security checks are listed below.
You need to check if your Buoyancy Compensator (BCD) is properly inflated, and make sure that the inflator and deflator buttons are functioning properly. It is always best to have a diving buddy lend you a helping hand as while you busy yourself with checking your gear, your partner can check if the buttons are working properly. Once you have confirmed that those buttons are functioning properly , make sure once more that your compensator is sufficiently inflated. If you don't have a dive buddy or a friend or family member to support you, most villas that you may stay at such as Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas among many others, are likely to have diving professionals who will assist you with this process.
Following the buoyancy compensator inspection, you need to check if your weight belt is properly in place. You need to know your weight system; whether it is an integrated one inserted into the buoyancy compensator or not. You should be properly aware on how to release your weights in case of an emergency. Also make sure that the quick release system of the weights is within your line of sight.
Your BCD's releases should warm you enough, but to only if you have done them properly. In order to get yourself warmed up properly, your assistant or buddy should check on the tank band that connects the BCD to the scuba tank. The band should be tight so that the tank will not slip out even when you jump into the water. You do not need to worry too much about the waters, as the seas usually tend to be calm around the Maldives. Water sports, though they may require an initial learning curve, are much easier to learn they seem, and could end up being more fun than you'd ever imagined.
Fourthly, your regulator should work properly. Check if the tank valve is open and your scuba tanks are full. You need to take the pressure gauge in hand. Only then can you have a clear idea about the tank pressure. You will be breathing through the regulator while checking the pressure gauge needle. If the pressure gauge needle won't go down to a drastic level, you don't need to worry. All what you have to check is that the regulator lets you breathe comfortably. Your buddy or assistant should then inform you where the alternate air source is. Check that source too by breathing. This source is to be used if your regulator does not function as it should after you start your dive.
After you get all the safety checks confirmed, you have this last step to check. Check if all the hoses are in their proper place. Have you got proper fins and masks? Also, do remember to take your sunglasses and hats off, if you are wearing any!
