4 Skills All Scuba Divers Should Master and Practice

ll SCUBA divers know training is required before diving, that's why PADI and BSAC offer such valuable qualifications. Every diver started somewhere and has somewhat of a mountain to climb of skills that one has to learn to become a true seasoned and skillful diver. These are generally practiced in theory, a pool session then finally on actual dives. This experience is invaluable to any new diver and shouldn't be underestimated.

It takes time to master these skills; some may argue that a qualification and a few open water diving sessions are simply not enough to make a conditioned reaction an instinctive one. Some scuba divers hold many qualifications and a large log who have not even mastered some of the basic diving skills. Some divers disregard the simple aspects we will discuss, however in diving, what you don't know can (and inevitably will) hurt you, so its better to cut your losses, put the work in and make sure you are proficient in your skill and hobby.

1.) Buoyancy Management Skills

Buoyancy seems to be used by divers, to judge other divers ability. Neutral buoyancy allows for a more comfortable dive, more efficient use of air and can potentially stop a serious accident occurring. A minor ascent of 5-6 feet can cause the air in your BCD to expand and send you shooting to the surface if you aren't careful. People have, and continue to be seriously injured by this ever year. Because of this, it is the single most important skill a SCUBA diver can learn. This involves dry suits, weight belts and your BCD.

2.) Swimming

Not all dives are like the red sea, in the UK and colder climates, the temperature can really affect divers, as can currents. You should be physically fit when diving. Most instructors consider it apart of their job. You should too. Swimming back to the boat in a 3 knot current will drain you. Being dive fit will mean you can easily tow another diver, thus saving there life.

3.) Equipment Skills

Knowing your own SCUBA equipment can save your life, and it can save another life too. It goes without saying you should know your own gear like the back of your hand. Make sure if you need to reach for your octopus, your hand instinctively reaches for it. If you need to tighten a D-ring, you know where it is etc. Knowing your gear will mean you don't panic as much, and you know how to react should anything ever happen.

4.) Mask Clearing

As you know, you need an airspace in your mask so your eyes can focus. Getting water in your mask is not only cold and very annoying, it can also potentially be life threatening. Deep diving when a direct ascent to the surface is not available, coupled with diver panic and narcosis and you can have a serious situation. Any diver should be able to swiftly and efficiently clear there mask, if you have any trouble, just keep trying!