Introduction to Scuba Diving

Scuba Diving

• SCUBA stands for "Self-Contained Underwater Breathing Apparatus"
• Jacques Cousteau and Emile Gagnan created scuba equipment
• Scuba diving is an underwater activity with divers using their own breathing equipment
• Divers using scuba gear do not rely on surface air
• Scuba gear allows divers to stay underwater for extended periods

Benefits of Scuba Diving

• Relaxation and stress relief
• Improved fitness and health
• Opportunity for adventure and exploration
• Community building through shared experiences

Basic Scuba Diving Equipment

• Dive mask creates an air space for clear underwater vision
• Snorkel is a breathing tube for surface breathing without lifting the head
• Fins enhance underwater movement efficiency, mimicking marine animal swimming
• Buoyancy Control Device (BCD) is a jacket-like device that controls buoyancy by adding or releasing air
• Regulator controls airflow from the tank to the diver
• The tank stores compressed air

Scuba Training and Certification

• Proper training teaches equipment use, underwater communication, and emergency handling
• Certification ensures knowledge of safety rules for secure diving

Scuba Diving Safety Rules

• Never dive alone
• Monitor air supply
• Adhere to depth and time limits

Popular Scuba Diving Destinations

• Great Barrier Reefs
• Maldives
• Palawan

Aquatic Activities

• Aquatic activities include a wide range of physical or recreational activities perfomed on or in water

Safety Precautions for Aquatic Activities

• Swim in designated areas with marked borders and specified times
• Exit the water if feeling uneasy
• Check water temperature and weather conditions before entering
• Always swim with a buddy
• Select appropriate equipment for the chosen activity
• Understand currents in open water
• Avoid alcohol consumption, as it impairs judgment
• Wear a USCG-approved life vest, especially for children and weak swimmers
• Have an emergency plan for water activities
• Swim parallel to the shore if caught in a rip current

First Aid

• First aid refers to care administration to prevent deterioration, aid recovery and preserve life
• First aid includes simply, often life-saving ways that can be performed by most people, with little or no equipment required

Common First Aid Injuries

• Cuts/Scrapes are breaks or abrasions in the skin
• Burns are damage to the skin or body parts caused by extreme heat, flame, and contact with hot objects or chemicals; treatment involves cooling, covering, and calling for help
• Splinters are objects embedded under the skin
• Sprains are injuries to ligaments or joint capsules
• Strains are injuries to muscles or tendons
• "Pulled muscle" is a common term for strains
• Rest an injured area for 48 hours
• Ice should be applied 4 to 8 times daily
• Compression reduces swelling
• Elevation, 6 to 10 inches above the heart
• Fractures are broken bones resulting from falls or impacts

First Aid Kit Essentials

• Thermometer
• Tweezers
• Emergency contact information
• Scissors
• Cold pack
• Safety pins
• Gauze roll and pads
• Gloves
• Elastic bandages
• Bandages
• Emergency blanket
• Adhesive tape
• Antiseptic wipes

Environmental Hazards

• Environmental hazards are substances, states, or events that can threaten the natural environment and human health
• Such hazards include pollution and natural disasters

Types of Environmental Hazards

• Chemical hazards involve substances harmful to people or the environment
• Physical hazards are environmental factors or conditions causing harm through contact
• Biological hazards involve biological agents that threaten the health of living organisms
• Psychosocial hazards are workplace factors causing stress, strain, or interpersonal issues
• Mechanical hazards are physical hazards involving machines or movable devices

Injuries

• Injuries are physical harm to the body from accidents, falls, impacts, or hazards
• Can range from minor cuts to severe damage like fractures or burns.

Types of Injuries

• Acute injuries occur suddenly from accidents or impacts, causing immediate pain and swelling
• Chronic injuries develop over time from repeated stress, such as tendonitis or lower back pain
• Open injuries involve breaks in the skin, exposing tissue and risking infection if untreated
• Closed injuries do not break the skin but cause internal damage,

Risk Management

• Risk management involves identifying and controlling hazards to keep people safe
• This includes identifying risks, taking safety measures, and preparing for emergencies
• Risk management helps reduce accidents and injuries

Career Opportunities

• Career roles are positions within a field or industry individuals pursue based on skills, education, and experience

Career Opportunities in Outdoor Recreation

• Park Ranger: Oversees regulations, safeguards wildlife and habitats, maintains trails, and educates the public
• Mountaineer Guide: Leads individuals/groups, offers guidance on equipment, safety, and emergency protocols, acts as a coach
• Wildlife Manager: Manages health/preservation of wildlife populations, ensures animal monitoring, habitat restoration
• Life Guard: Ensures the safety of swimmers, surfers, and other water sports participants
• Rafting Guide: Leads commercial whitewater rafting trips
• Surfing Instructor: Teaches individuals how to surf, enter the water safely, catch a wave, and return to shore

Skills Required for Careers in Outdoor Recreation

• Communication skills: Effectively conveying information
• Leadership skills: Guiding and motivating individuals
• Problem-solving skills: Identifying issues, evaluating solutions
• Decision-making: Making informed, rational decisions
• Navigation skills: Determining location, planning routes
• Adaptability: Handling challenges like weather and participant behavior