Public Safety Diver
© Dive Rescue International 2011
Course Overview Public Safety Diver
Entry Level Certification Program Overview
7 Academic Chapters & Final Exam Pool & Open Water Sessions IADRS Watermanship Test
1-2
Public Safety Diver-Academics
Surface Swimming/Snorkeling Scuba Diving Using the Scuba Equipment Adapting the Body to Water and Pressure Depth, Time and the Diver The Aquatic Environment The Dive Operation
1-3
IADRS Watermanship Test
Successfully completed prior to certification IADRS created - NFPA recommended 5 Events – point system (METS)
Need 12 points total to pass 500 yard swim 15 minute tread water 800 yard mask, fin, snorkel swim 100 yard inert diver tow Surface dive to retrieve an object from 9 feet
1-4
Chapter 1 Surface Swimming/Snorkeling Mask, Snorkel and Fins Exposure Suits Weight Systems Snorkel Techniques
1-5
Objectives
Discuss the components of the basic equipment utilized by the surface swimmer.
Define the proper way to don, doff and use the equipment.
Explain the proper techniques or “skill sets” for entry, exit and surface swimming while snorkeling.
1-6
Masks
Types High Volume Low Volume
Materials Rubber Silicone
Fit
1-7
Mask Features
Lens Strap Skirt Positive Locking Device Nose Pocket Purge Valves Corrective Lenses
Maintenance and Storage Equalizing, Clearing
1-8
Snorkel
Purpose Materials
Rubber Silicone Plastic
Adjustment Clearing
Features Large vs Small Bore Corrugated vs Smooth Purge Valve Curved vs Straight Tube Mouthpiece Maintenance Snorkel Keeper
1-9
Fins and Footwear
Purpose Types
Adjustable / Open Heel Full Foot
Materials Rubber Thermoplastics Graphite Injected
Features Vents Ribs Channels Buckles Stiff vs Flexible
Adjustment and fit Maintenance /
storage
1-10
Exposure Protection-Dive Skin
Purpose Types
Lycra, Polartec, Darlexx or Thermalastic
Features Donning Buoyancy Maintenance and Storage
1-11
Exposure Protection-Wet Suit Purpose Types
One-piece Two-piece Shorty
Materials Features
Thickness Accessories
1-12
Exposure Protection-Dry Suits
Purpose Types Materials
Neoprene Nylon Vulcanized rubber Tri-butyl laminate Urethane-coated nylon
Features1-13
Weight System Purpose Types/Material
Standard Belt with Weights
Pouch or Pocket Work and Weight
System Materials Buckle Location
“Texas Quick Draw”1-14
Buoyancy Control Device (BCD) Purpose Types
Front Mount or Snorkel Vest
Back Mount Jacket Style Advanced Design
Construction
Features Oral Inflator Valve CO2 Cartridge Dump Valve(s) Pockets
Adjustment, Fit and Capacity
Maintenance and Storage
1-15
Donning the Equipment
Exposure Protection Boots Hood Gloves BCD Mask and Snorkel Weight System Fins
1-16
Entering the Water
Controlled Seated Entry Giant Stride Entry Feet First Jumping Entry Roll Entries
1-17
“The best way is the easiest, safest and least disorienting way”
Swimming/Surface Dives w/Fins
Flutter Kick Dolphin Kick Scissor Kick
Head First Dive Feet First Dive
1-18
Discussion Questions/Review What are some of the features to
look for in a dive mask, and how do these features benefit the diver?
How does a diver prevent condensation from forming on the inside of the mask lens?
How can a diver prevent a mask
squeeze from occurring?
Which side of the head is the
snorkel worn on and why?
What are the two basic fin
styles?
Describe the two methods for clearing the snorkel?
List three types of exposure suits
and describe when they might be worn.
What two pieces of equipment help a diver achieve neutral buoyancy?
How would a diver equalize the pressure in his ears while making a descent?
What are two ways to achieve positive buoyancy?
Summary
You have just begun a rewarding career as a Public Safety Diver. Your first step was learning about the basic equipment and techniques used by surface swimmers and/or snorkelers. You now have a good foundation on which to continue your development as a public safety diver.
1-20