Open Water 1 Flashcards
As an open water diver, you can dive how deep with a partner or instructor?
18m / 60 ft
The four Es of Diving
Education, Experience, Equipment, Environment
At what rate does pressure change underwater?
One bar for every 10m/33ft
How often should you equalize when descending?
Every few feet. Warn others if you can not do it.
How do you equalize when ascending?
You don’t. Breathe normally and the extra air should leave
What is the most important rule of diving?
Continuously breathe. Never hold your breath.
What is a reverse block?
When air does not equalize normally during ascent. If this happens, carefully descend and wait for it to equalize.
How should you try to breathe?
Slowly, deeply, constantly. Do not let yourself feel exerted.
What is positive vs negative buoyancy?
Is it lighter than the surrounding environment and will therefore float? Then it is positive buoyancy.
If heavier and would sink, that is negative buoyancy.
Neutral is balanced in the middle.
How does buoyancy differ in fresh vs salt water?
Salt in saltwater makes the water denser and therefore you more buoyant.
For reference, think of most buoyant sea of the Dead Sea
BCD
Buoyancy Control Device
How much weight do you need in your weight system?
Just enough to descend, but not so much that you sink quickly.
What are the three most important factors in picking equipment?
Suitability, Fit, Comfort
Right for the circumstances, adjusted for you (dive shop can help), enjoyable to wear (up to you)
Why do you need a mask?
Eyes must be in air to focus, and nose must be enclosed to equalize mask
Signs of a proper mask?
Sits close to face with as wide a field of view as possible
Mask strap should be placed
Above ears, over the crown of the head
Why do divers use snorkels?
They are good for conserving air supply when near the surface, while still easier than taking head above water
Four parts of the scuba kit/scuba unit
BCD
Regulator
Cylinder
Weight System
The LPI
Low Pressure Inflator, fills BCD with air from the cylinder
Regulator components
- First stage (hub) - Provides air to all components
- Second stage - provides air at surrounding pressure to breathe
- Alternate air source (“octopus”) - Backup air, can share with others if needed. -Often brightly colored to find easily
- SPG (submersible pressure gauge) - Shows remaining air in tank
- Low pressure inflator hose
Where does the alternate air source go?
In the triangle between hips and chin
What is a burst disk?
Part of the valve on a cylinder that releases excess pressure
What is Trim?
Balance and in water. Natural/horizontal position is ideal.
Most important feature of a weight system?
The ability to quick release in case of a problem
Watch videos, practice hand signals
