How To Scuba

Knowing how to scuba can provide you an opportunity to engage in a fun leisure activity. The world is mostly covered by water and the views, creatures and experiences provided by going under that water can be enjoyed up-close and personal while scuba diving. The gear is not cheap and getting to good dive spots can be challenging, but the pay off you get when coming face-to-face with a shark makes it all worth it.

Equipment:

• Oxygen tank
• Regulator
• Mask
• Fins
• Scuba diving suit
• Gauge
• Weights
• Lights
• Camera
• Gloves

1. Get certified. To know how to scuba, it is important to get certified. Major organizations like the Professional Association of Dive Instructors and the National Association of Underwater Instructors offer detailed and thorough courses that give lifetime certifications. In addition, many diving outfitters or cruise ships will give an abbreviated certification that will prepare you for a less rigorous dive, but still get you ready to have a good time.
2. Buddy system. You should always dive using the buddy system. Experienced divers might want to go underwater on their own, but it never hurts to have a friend there to watch your back. A “buddy” can help out in case of an emergency, such as you getting snagged on some rocks or coral, coming under attack from a predator or running of out of air. It’s certainly a good idea when going into a foreign environment.
3. Equipment. The equipment you take with you on a dive will go a long way toward you enjoying yourself. To know how to scuba successfully, you should take an inventory of everything you have before going under water. Scuba gear can get expensive pretty quick, but it's important to not skimp on safety by buying used items that are not in top shape or getting off-brand products. Find out what is essential, what is simply an accessory and only take what you have to on your first few dives. The list above will help you narrow your list down and if you can afford to splurge, go ahead and get a few additional gadgets.
4. Be prepared for emergencies. You should be prepared for anything and expect the unexpected. When something goes wrong under water it can have devastating consequences. Pay attention during your certification classes so you know what to do should your mask come off your face, should your tank run low or if you start to feel ill. On a related note, if you are not physically fit, do not over exert yourself. Many fatalities occur in men with cardiovascular issues.
5. Good dive sites. To get the most out of your experience, you want to find great dive sites. The Caribbean, the Florida Keys and other places with warm and clear water are great places to go to try scuba diving. In these areas you will find a number of companies that offer diving opportunities with transportation to known good sites. In addition, old quarries that have been filled with water and stocked with fish are used throughout the country for divers who don’t have access to tropical climates. Check with local organizations to find where your nearest dive opportunities are.