Introduction to Scuba Diving

• Study notes on scuba diving

Scuba Diving Basics

• The word scuba is an acronym that stands for Self-Contained Underwater Breathing Apparatus
• Scuba diving is a method where divers use a regulator as the breathing device and a tank filled with compressed air to breathe underwater
• Enables divers to explore underwater for longer periods

Types of Scuba Diving

• Open-circuit scuba diving uses a traditional breathing apparatus or "regulator" where the exhaled gas is released into the water or a buoyancy control device
• Closed-circuit scuba diving uses a rebreather, recycling the exhaled gas back into the tank

Historical Development

• 900 BCE: Assyrian divers used animal skins filled with air
• 1300s: Divers used a simple cauldron or diving bell
• 1690: Edmund Halley improved the diving bell, using a smaller diving bell connected to the bigger one for air
• 1715: Englishman John Lethbridge invented the "diving engine," supplied with compressed air from the surface
• 1823: Charles Anthony Deane invented the "smoke helmet," supplied with air from the surface
• 1825: William James invented the first workable, full-time SCUBA with a cylindrical belt as an air reservoir at 450 psi
• 1837: German-born inventor Augustus Siebe innovated on the closed diving suit
• 1843: The Royal Navy established the first diving school
• 1866: Frenchmen Benoit Rouquayrol and Auguste Denayrouze patented the "Aerophore," a steel tank of compressed air
• 1878: Henry A. Fleuss developed the first self-contained diving gear using compressed oxygen
• 1943: Jacques Cousteau and Emile Gagnan redesigned a car regulator, now known as the aqualung changing modern diving

Scuba Diving Purposes

• Recreation: Enjoying marine life and taking photos/videos
• Technical/Commercial: cave and advanced wreck diving
• Military: underwater surveillance and rescue missions

Requirements for Scuba Diving

• Almost anyone can scuba dive, with health and age being important considerations
• Children as young as eight years old can start learning in shallow waters
• A 10-year-old child can train and be certified as a Junior Open Water Diver
• Diving organizations in the USA require children to be at least 12 years old before certification
• Divers need to be physically fit to handle unexpected strenuous activities, and all students will be asked to answer a medical questionnaire

Considerations for Scuba Diving

• Disabilities do not prevent scuba diving
• Training is available for physically challenged divers

Basic Scuba Diving Equipment

• Dive mask: Creates an air pocket for clearer underwater vision
• Snorkel: Allows breathing through the mouth when swimming face down
• BCD: Controls position in the water column by adding or removing air
• Regulator: Connects to the tank to deliver steady air at the right pressure
• Octopus: Backup regulator with a longer hose and bright color for emergency use
• Weight belts: Used to counteract buoyancy
• SPG: Shows how much air is left
• Scuba tank: Contains pressurized air
• Fins: Provide propulsion
• Scuba or wetsuit: Provide protection from cold water

Other Accessories

• Dive computer: Monitors depth, time, and remaining safe time
• Dive lights: Provide needed light underwater
• Dive knife: Used for cutting ropes, lines, and monofilament
• Dive case: Used for protecting gears while traveling

Skills Needed

• Conduct a pre-dive safety check with a buddy before entering the water

Pre-Dive Safety Check (BWRAF)

• BCD/Buoyancy: Check the buoyancy compensator, inflator, deflator buttons, and pull strings
• Weights: Ensure quick-release systems are visible and unencumbered, weight belt is oriented correctly, and divers know how to release weights in an emergency
• Releases: Check BCD clips and strap tightness, and ensure the tank band is secure
• Air: Check air supply, tank valve, pressure gauge, regulator, and alternate air source
• Final Check/Final Okay: Overall check with buddy to confirm readiness to dive