DIVE
SAFETY

Safety is the foundation of every dive. This checklist is designed to help divers prepare, prevent risks, and ensure every underwater experience is safe, inclusive, and enjoyable.

Pre-Travel Preparation

• Make dive plans for your destination.

• Review the dive operator’s standards, procedures, and liability policies.

• Complete a Diver Medical Questionnaire. If you answer ‘YES’ to certain questions, make an appointment with your doctor to review your medical status to complete and sign page 3 of the form.

• Inspect all gear:

  • mask and snorkel

  • fins

  • regulators and gauges

  • dive computer

  • BCD

  • wetsuit

  • dive boots

  • DSMB and dive reel

  • UW flashlight (low visibility or night dives)

  • tank and weights (if diving locally).

• Service the gear according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

• Enroll in a dive / travel insurance plan.

• Be aware of local or marine sanctuary rules - no gloves, no knives, no sunscreen, etc.

• Schedule a Refresher session if you haven’t been diving in a while or nervous.

• Bring your diver certification card (c-Card) or download the app for your e-Card.

Emergency Readiness

• Let your emergency contact person know where and when you will be diving.

• Know the location of the nearest recompression chamber and emergency numbers.

• Carry signaling devices: whistle, surface marker buoy, and UW flashlight (night dives).

• Review emergency hand signals.

• Ensure first aid and oxygen kits are available on site.

• Ask for the name of the dive boat and the radio frequency used.

Pre-Dive Destination Preparation

• Ensure proper hydration and avoid alcohol before diving.

• Confirm weather and water conditions are safe.

Inclusive Practices

• Use clear communication: respectful, and supportive.

• Encourage open sharing of individual needs or concerns.

• Call the dive if not feeling well or something feels off.

• Adapt dive plans for varying skill levels and physical abilities.

• Use adaptive equipment and accessible entry/exit options if needed.

• Manage your gear on the boat so that it is out of the way.

Before the Dive

• Actively listen to the dive briefing from the local dive guide.

• Do a predive safety check (BWRAF) with your dive buddy before entering the water.

  • B - BCD

  • W - Weights

  • R - Releases

  • A - Air

  • F - Final Check

• Follow directions on how to enter the water.

During the Dive

• Equalize your ears.

• Monitor your air and depth.

• Maintain neutral buoyancy.

• Avoid distrubing the reef or marine life.

End of the Dive

• Slowly ascend and make a safety stop.

• On the surface follow the dive crew’s directions.

• Stay hydrated and enjoy a snack.

• Track your surface interval time to safely dive again.

After Completing the Day of Diving

• Rinse and maintain your gear.

• Avoid excessive exercise, soaking in hot tubs, overly hot showers, and activities at higher elevations (mountain tours, skydiving, ziplining).

• Keep your dive computer on for 24 hours after your last dive to monitor “no fly time”.

• Log your dives