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  • How SCUBA Diving Can Pioneer Trash and Environmental Efforts

    How SCUBA Diving Can Pioneer Trash and Environmental Efforts

    SCUBA Conservation

    If you love diving and care about the environment, you might be interested in joining a group of scuba divers who are on a mission to collect undersea litter in New York City. These divers are not only enjoying the beauty and diversity of marine life but also helping to undo some of the damage caused by ocean pollution.

    These divers are part of the DIVERS-ity Initiative, which promotes inclusion in the sport. They meet every month at a small cove in Far Rockaway, where New York City meets the Atlantic Ocean, about 4 miles south of John F. Kennedy International Airport in Queens. There, they dive into an environment that is both fascinating and filthy.

    The divers encounter horseshoe crabs, coral colonies, sea robins, blackfish, and angelfish, but also plastic bottles, candy wrappers, and fishing lines that endanger sea life. The divers collect as much trash as they can by hand or by cutting it with scissors. They also compete for the prize of the weirdest find, which includes a goat skull and an ATM.

    The founder of the dive school SuperDive, Nicole Zelek, started the monthly cleanups four years ago as a way to combine her passion for diving with her concern for the environment. She said that fishing lines are especially harmful to crabs and other crustaceans that get tangled and die. She also said that she hopes to inspire more people to join the effort and raise awareness about ocean pollution.

    Ocean pollution is a global problem that affects millions of marine animals and plants, as well as human health and well-being. According to Ocean Conservancy, a nonprofit organization that organizes international coastal cleanups every September, about 400 million pounds of trash have been retrieved from coastal areas around the world since 1986. However, much more needs to be done to tackle the crisis of single-use plastics and other hard-to-degrade materials that accumulate in the oceans.

    Scuba diving can be a powerful way to pioneer trash and environmental efforts, as it allows divers to witness firsthand the impact of pollution on marine ecosystems and to take action to protect them. By diving into the depths of New York City’s waters, these divers are, not only having fun but also making a difference.

    There is a lot of ways you can help pioneer environmental efforts. If you wish to embark on your own SCUBA diving journey and live near the Carolina Coast, reach out to By the Shore SCUBA Instruction. We can meet your tailored SCUBA needs, or check out our calendar for chartered excursions. Kevin Alexander, our instructor has trekked locations like Cozumel and Bonaire. See what By the Shore SCUBA Instruction has to offer.

    Sources-

    -https://apnews.com/article/scuba-diving-ocean-pollution-new-york-f799ca1b2851d6e5c4791a45ad2416b6

    –https://oceanconservancy.org/trash-free-seas/international-coastal-cleanup/

  • Preparing for a deep open-water dive

    Preparing for a deep open-water dive

    preparing for your deep open-water dive (2)

    If you are a recreational PADI diver, you might have already experienced the thrill of diving in different environments, such as coral reefs, wrecks, or caves. But have you ever wondered what lies beyond the 18-meter (60-foot) mark? If you are curious about the deep blue, you might want to try a deep open-water dive. A deep dive is any dive deeper than 18 meters, and it can open up a whole new world of diving possibilities. However, it also requires some extra preparation, equipment, and skills. Here are some tips on preparing for a deep open-water dive and what to expect from this adventure.

    Get quality training.

    Before you can go on a deep dive, you need to have reliable training and certification. The PADI Advanced Open Water Diver course is a great way to start, as it teaches you how to dive up to 30 meters (100 feet) and introduces you to different types of diving, such as night diving, wreck diving, and navigation diving. You will also learn how to use a dive computer, which is essential for deep diving. Look for an experienced dive instructor like By the Shore SCUBA Instruction in Raleigh, NC. Kevin Alexander is a PADI instructor and occasionally books group charters.

    Going Deeper

    If you want to go deeper, you can take the PADI Deep Diver Specialty course, which focuses on deep diving and covers topics such as gas management, decompression sickness, nitrogen narcosis, and emergency procedures. This course will allow you to dive up to 40 meters (130 feet), the maximum depth for recreational diving.

    Choose the right equipment.

    Deep diving requires more equipment than shallow diving, as you deal with colder temperatures, reduced visibility, and increased pressure. Here are some of the essential items you will need:

    • A dive computer: This device will tell you your depth, time, no-decompression limit, ascent rate, and safety stop information. It will also alert you if you exceed your planned depth, and time, or ascend too fast.
    •  A dive light: A dive light will help you see better in the dark and communicate with your buddy. It will also make the colors of the underwater world more vivid and reveal hidden creatures.
    • A surface marker buoy (SMB): An SMB is a bright-colored inflatable tube you can deploy from depth to signal your position to the boat or other divers. It will also help you ascend safely along a line and avoid drifting away from your planned exit point.
    • An alternate air source: An alternate air source is a spare regulator that you can use for emergencies, such as running out of air or having a malfunctioning primary regulator. You can carry your alternate air source or share one with your buddy.
    • A dive knife or cutting tool: A dive knife or cutting tool can help you free yourself or your buddy from entanglement or snagging by fishing lines, nets, or ropes.

    Plan your dive

    Planning your dive is crucial for deep diving, as you will have less time and air available than on shallow dives. Consider decompression stops, gas consumption, nitrogen narcosis, and emergency scenarios. Here are some steps to follow when planning your dive:

    Choose a suitable dive site.

    Pick a dive site that matches your skill level, interests, and objectives. Become familiar with the layout, conditions, hazards, and site attractions. You can also consult with a local dive guide or operator for advice.

    Set your depth and time limits.

    Based on your training, certification, and experience, decide how deep and long you want to dive. Use your dive computer or a recreational dive planner (RDP) to calculate your no-decompression limit (NDL), the maximum time you can stay at a given depth without making mandatory decompression stops on your way up.

    Estimate your gas consumption. 

    To avoid running out of air on a deep dive, estimate how much gas you will consume and plan accordingly. You can use your SAC rate (surface air consumption rate) to calculate how much air you use per minute at the surface. Then multiply it by a factor that accounts for the increased pressure at depth. Alternatively, you can use your dive computer which has an integrated air pressure gauge that will tell you how much air you have left in your tank at any time.

    Plan your safety stops.

    A safety stop is a pause at a shallow depth during your ascent that allows your body to eliminate excess nitrogen and reduce the risk of decompression sickness. Safety stops are recommended for all dives deeper than 10 meters (30 feet), but they are mandatory for dives deeper than 18 meters (60 feet) or dives that approach the NDL. The standard safety stop is 3 minutes at 5 meters (15 feet), but you may need to make additional or longer stops depending on your dive profile and computer.

    Plan your emergency procedures.

    Before you dive, you and your buddy should agree on an emergency plan, such as running out of air, losing contact, or having equipment problems. You should also know how to recognize and treat the symptoms of decompression sickness and nitrogen narcosis, which are more likely to occur in deep dives.

    Enjoy your dive

    Once you have completed your training, chosen your equipment, and planned your dive, you can enjoy your deep open water dive. Deep diving can be an exhilarating and rewarding experience. You explore new places, see different marine life, and challenge yourself. 

    Remember to follow the rules of safe diving, such as:

    • Never dive alone or beyond your limits
    • Monitor your depth, time, and air
    • Ascend slowly and make safety stops
    • Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol
    • Keep a positive attitude and have fun

    Nothing is guaranteed.

    Deep diving is a great way to expand your diving skills and knowledge and discover new underwater wonders. However, it also comes with risks and challenges requiring proper preparation and planning. By following the tips we have given you in this blog post, you can ensure that your deep open-water dive will be a safe and enjoyable adventure. Happy diving!

    Disclaimer

    **This blog post is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Diving is a potentially hazardous activity that involves inherent risks and requires proper training, certification, and equipment. Always consult with a qualified instructor before attempting any diving activity, especially deep diving. Follow the standards and guidelines of your diving organization and respect the local laws and regulations of your diving destination. Dive within your limits and do not dive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Diving is a personal choice and you are responsible for your safety and well-being.**

    Sources-

    https://blog.padi.com/how-to-prepare-for-your-open-water-diver-course

    https://www.sidive.com/how-to-prepare-for-your-open-water-course/

    https://blog.padi.com/padi-open-water-dives/

    https://www.padi.com/courses/open-water-diver

    PADI Advanced Open Water Diver certification course

    Try Deep Diving | PADI Deep Diver Specialty

  • The Controversies of Children SCUBA Diving

    The Controversies of Children SCUBA Diving

    Young people scuba diving

    Scuba diving is an activity that amazes and opens up a whole new world of adventure, discovery, and wonder for anyone who tries it. But is it safe for kids? At what age should children be allowed to dive? And what are the benefits and risks of scuba diving for young people? These are some of the questions that many parents and instructors face when considering introducing children to the underwater realm.

    The Minimum Age for Scuba Diving

    There is no universal agreement on the minimum age for scuba diving. Different training agencies have age limits, ranging from 8 to 12 years old. These are junior certification levels. However, these are not absolute rules, only recommendations based on average physical and mental development stages.

    The minimum age for scuba diving also depends on the type and depth of diving. For example, PADI (the Professional Association of Dive Instructors) allows children as young as eight to participate in their Bubblemaker program, introducing them to scuba diving in a pool or confined water up to 2 meters (6 feet) deep. Children aged ten or older can enroll in the Junior Open Water Diver course, which allows them to dive up to 12 meters (40 feet) deep with a parent or guardian.

     Each child should be individually assessed by their parents and instructors based on their physical, mental, and emotional maturity, as well as their interest, motivation, and comfort level.

    The Controversies of Children Diving

    Children and diving are not without controversy. There are many concerns and debates about the safety and suitability of scuba diving for kids, ranging from medical issues to psychological challenges. Some of the most common controversies are:

    Ear Infections and Barotrauma

    Children are more prone to ear infections than adults, as their Eustachian tubes are narrower and more horizontal, making them less effective at equalizing pressure in the middle ear. Children are at risk for middle-ear barotrauma, the most common diving injury. Children need to learn how to equalize their ears properly and gently. They should also avoid diving when they have a cold or congestion.

    Hypothermia

    Children have a higher metabolic rate than adults, meaning they burn more calories and generate more heat. In cold water, they can tolerate lower temperatures better than adults. However, once they run out of calories, they can lose heat quickly, as they have a higher body-mass-to-surface-area ratio than adults. They need adequate thermal protection and shorter dives to prevent hypothermia.

    Pulmonary Problems

    Children have smaller lungs and airways than adults, which may make them more susceptible to air trapping and gas expansion injuries, such as pneumothorax or arterial gas embolism. These are rare but potentially fatal complications if a diver ascends too fast or holds their breath while diving. Children with asthma or other respiratory conditions need careful evaluation by a physician before diving. Respiratory ailments may increase their risk of pulmonary problems.

    Bone Growth Deformities 

    One of the most controversial issues about children and diving is the possible effect of high pressure on bone growth. Some studies have suggested that exposure to high pressure may cause changes in the growth plates of bones, leading to reduced height or deformities in later life. However, these studies observed animals or professional divers exposed to much higher pressures and longer times than recreational divers. There is no conclusive evidence that recreational diving affects bone growth in children, but more research is needed to confirm this.

    Psychological Stress

     Perhaps the most significant concern about children and diving involves their psychological maturity and cognitive ability. Children may not have the emotional stability, reasoning skills, or self-control to handle the stress and challenges of the underwater environment. They may not understand or follow the safety rules and procedures. They may panic or act impulsively in an emergency. They may also be easily distracted or influenced by peer pressure, which can compromise their judgment and decision-making. Children must communicate effectively with their instructor or buddy, express any discomfort or problems, and adhere to the dive plan.

    Feel Free to drop a line to By the Shore SCUBA Instruction for more details on your particular diving interests. Meet Kevin Alexander our main PADI dive master for trips, advice, and more details to improve your dives.

    Disclaimer:

    The information provided by BY THE SHORE on this website is for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment regarding SCUBA diving or any related activities. SCUBA diving involves inherent risks and dangers that may result in serious injury or death. You should always consult with a qualified instructor, doctor, or other relevant professional before engaging in SCUBA diving or any related activities. BY THE SHORE does not assume any responsibility or liability for any loss, damage, injury, or death that occurs from your use of the information on this website. Follow the advice in this article at your own risk.

    Sources–

    If you want to learn more about children and diving, here are some sources and web links that you can check out:

    – Children and Diving – Divers Alert Network: https://dan.org/alert-diver/article/children-and-diving-2/

    – The Pros and Cons of Scuba Diving for Kids – TripSavvy: https://www.tripsavvy.com/is-scuba-diving-safe-for-kids-2963213

    – Children and Scuba Diving https://www.padi.com/education/learn-to-dive

    – Kids Sea Camp – Family Dive Adventures: https://familydivers.com/