7 Awesome Holiday Gift Ideas for Diving Enthusiasts

Are you struggling to find the perfect gift for a diving enthusiast in your life? With the holidays right around the corner, you don’t much time to spare. However, that doesn’t mean you should settle on a restaurant or retail gift card. You can still leave a lasting impression by choosing the right gift. Below are seven awesome gift ideas for the diving enthusiast in your life.

#1) Water Socks

Also known as aqua socks, water socks are a great gift idea for a diving enthusiast. Like conventional socks, they are worn on the feet for warmth, comfort and protection from the elements. Water socks are unique, however, because of their waterproof construction. While conventional socks are typically made of organic materials like cotton or wool, water socks are made of synthetic waterproof materials like lycra or neoprene.

Because of their waterproof construction, water socks can be worn when diving. They are super soft and comfortable yet equally strong and durable. Keep in mind that diving socks are available in several different styles, so choose a style that matches the personal preference of the diving enthusiast for whom you are purchasing it.

#2) Diving Mask Defogger

A diving mask defogger is the perfect stocking stuffer for a diving enthusiast. It’s frustrating when you’re diving 50 feet below the surface, only to discover that your mask is fogging up. This all-too-common phenomenon is the result of moisture vapor accumulating on the interior surface of a diving mask. As the moisture vapor builds up, it creates a cloudy haze that restricts your visibility. A diving mask defogger, as the name suggests, is a special type of product that’s designed to protect diving masks from fog-related problems such as this.

How do diving mask defoggers work exactly? While no two defoggers are the same, they all contain a proprietary blend of ingredients that lubricates diving masks to prevent the buildup of moisture vapor. Diving enthusiasts can spray the inside of their diving mask with the defogger, at which point he or she will experience better underwater vision when diving. Considering that defoggers are available for as little as $10, it’s an inexpensive and meaningful gift idea that’s bound to leave a lasting impression this holiday season.

#3) Dive Watch

Assuming he or she doesn’t already have one, you can give the diving enthusiast a dive watch this holiday season. Also known as a diving watch, a dive watch is a type of time-tracking wristwatch that’s designed specifically for underwater use. By definition, all dive watches can withstand the water, as well as the pressure, when diving at depths of at least 330 feet. With that said, most dive watches are designed for use at depths of up to 700 to 1,000 feet.

Here are some features to look for when shopping for a dive watch this holiday season:

  • Dive time indicator
  • High visibility in dark environments
  • Resistance to magnetic fields
  • Resistance to shock
  • Resistance to chemicals
  • End of life (EOL) indicator
  • Adjustable wristband
  • Attractive color and design

#4) Underwater Camera

In addition to a dive watch, an underwater camera is a great gift idea for a diving enthusiast. If you’ve ever dived before, you probably know that each dive is a unique experience. You’ll encounter a new and unfamiliar time each time you get in the water. With an underwater camera, a diving enthusiast can capture these experiences on film. Underwater cameras are designed to withstand the harsh underwater environments, allowing for crystal-clear images of a dive. A diving enthusiast can use the underwater camera to take photos of fish, coral reefs, submerged structures and more.

Underwater cameras can typically capture both images and videos. Videos, of course, consume more storage space than images. Therefore, you may want to purchase an extra memory card if the diving enthusiast for whom you purchase the underwater camera enjoys taking videos. The extra memory card will allow him or her to record more videos. Even without an extra memory card, though, an underwater camera is a meaningful gift for a diving enthusiast.

#5) Diving Lessons

A diving lesson is the gift that keeps on giving. While generic gift cards are typically a poor choice for a gift, an exception of a gift card for diving lessons. The Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) offers gift cards for all of its online courses. Known as PADI eLearning Gift Passes, they allow a diving enthusiast to take his or her diving skills to the next level. Using the eLearning Gift Pass, the diving enthusiast can participate in a specific PADI course. Assuming he or she completes the course, the diving enthusiast will receive PADI certification. You can even customize your eLearning Gift Pass to feature a festive holiday design as well as a personal message to the recipient.

Even if the diving enthusiast is well-versed in the mechanics of diving, he or she may still appreciate a gift card for diving lessons. It’s a relevant gift that can help divers tone their existing skills as well as learn new skills. And besides, most divers will agree that diving lessons are fun. For these reasons, you can’t go wrong with diving lessons as a holiday gift.

#6) Dry Bag

Another great go-to gift idea for a diving enthusiast is a dry bag. Dry bags aren’t just ordinary bags. They are called “dry bags” because they keep the stored contents dry at all times. Water can damage or even ruin many common items. Even if the diving enthusiast leaves his or her items on the boat, they may still be exposed to water from the splashing waves. The good news is that a dry bag can protect the diving enthusiast’s items from water-related damage. Once closed, the dry bag creates a sealed environment that prevents the intrusion of water and other liquids.

Dry bags are available in a variety of different sizes. Some dry bags are large enough to store multiple outfits of clothing, whereas others can only accommodate a few small items like a smartphone and camera.

#7) Fish Identification Book

All diving enthusiasts are sure to appreciate a fish identification book. To say there are a lot of fish in the oceans would be an understatement. While the exact number is unknown, some experts estimate there to be over 34,000 different species of fish, each of which with unique characteristics that distinguish them from the rest. With so many different species of fish, it’s difficult for divers to recognize and remember them all.

A fish identification book, however, can help the diving enthusiast in your look identify fish more easily. The Caribbean Reef Life book, for example, features colorful images and descriptions for countless fish, as well as other types of marine life, that inhabit the Caribbean Ocean.

Don’t wait until the last minute to find a holiday gift for the diving enthusiast in your life. Take action now to ensure that you’re able to find the perfect gift. Whether you choose a pair of waterproof socks, a diving mask defogger, a dive watch, an underwater camera, diving lessons, a dry bag or a fish identification book, the diving enthusiast is sure to appreciate any of these seven wonderful gift ideas.

Want to create your own custom dive logs? Contact us today to learn more about our custom dive logs.

/by

The Beginner’s Guide to Freshwater Diving

When most people think of common scuba diving locations, they immediately envision saltwater environments. However, it’s perfectly fine to dive in freshwater environments. Some divers, in fact, prefer freshwater environments over saltwater environments. But if you’re thinking about making the transition to freshwater, there are a few things you need to know.

The Advantages of Freshwater Diving

Freshwater diving offers several advantages, one of which is the chance to see entirely new aquatic ecosystems. In terms of ecosystems, the difference between freshwater diving and saltwater diving is light night and day. Saltwater environments tend to have a larger variety of animals and plants, whereas freshwater environments have fewer and more specific animals and plants. As a result, diving in freshwater allows you to explore new ecosystems that aren’t possible with saltwater diving.

Depending on where you live, diving in freshwater may be more convenient than diving in saltwater. If you live in the Central United States, for example, it may take a full day of driving to reach a beach. If there’s a lake nearby, on the other hand, you won’t have to waste your time and gas driving.

Riptides are also less likely to occur in freshwater than in saltwater. When diving in an ocean, you may get swept away by a riptide. While riptides can occur in freshwater, they are much less common than in saltwater.

The Disadvantages of Freshwater Diving

On the other hand, there are a few disadvantages of freshwater diving. You may discover, for instance, that freshwater environments are colder than saltwater environments. Even if the actual outdoor temperature is the same, a body of freshwater will probably feel cooler than a body of saltwater. As a result, some divers may experience discomfort when diving in freshwater, especially if they aren’t prepared with the appropriate equipment (see below).

Certain freshwater diving environments can also have poor visibility. As sediment, dirt and debris float through the water, it can restrict your ability to see. Using a high-quality diving mask can help, but you still won’t be able to see as far or as clearly as you would when diving in saltwater.

As previously mentioned, there’s also less diversity regarding the ecosystems of freshwater environments. If you’re looking to encounter a wide variety of aquatic animals, as well as plants, you may want to stick with traditional saltwater diving. The high concentration of particulate matter in freshwater restricts visibility when diving.

Choosing the Right Freshwater Diving Location

If you’re going to dive in freshwater, you need to choose the right location. Rivers are typically a poor choice because of their shallow depths and fast-moving currents. Instead of choosing a river, consider diving in a large lake or pond.

On its website, the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) lists several of the world’s top locations for freshwater diving. On its list, PADI recommends the ponds and sinkholes surrounding Mount Gambier in Australia. Featuring natural limestone and crystal-clear waters, it’s a truly amazing environment for freshwater diving. Another freshwater diving location recommended by PADI is Playa Del Carmen in Mexico. It’s a relatively shallow cavern — about 20 feet at its deepest point — that features natural stalagmites. Because of this, you’ll need to PADI Cavern Diver certification to dive at Playa Del Carmen. These are just a few of the world’s top freshwater diving locations. You can click on the aforementioned link for more freshwater diving locations recommended by PADI.

Regardless of which body of freshwater you intend to dive in, do your research before making the trip. A quick online search of the location’s name followed by “diving” should reveal stories from past divers. You can then decide whether it’s a suitable location for diving. If you discover a lot of positive comments from previous divers, it’s safe to assume the location is a good choice for your first freshwater dive. If most of the comments are negative, however, you may want to search for a different freshwater diving location.

Preparing Your Equipment for Freshwater Diving

You’ll need to prepare all the necessary equipment for freshwater equipment. The good news is that freshwater diving — for the most part — requires all the same basic equipment as saltwater diving. This includes a diving mask, also known as a scuba mask, as well as fins, a diving suit, a breathing apparatus and a buoyancy control device (BCD). Check out this previous post for more information on what equipment you’ll need.

With that said, you may want to bring other equipment when diving in freshwater. A waterproof camera, for example, will allow you to capture photos of your underwater adventure, whereas a waterproof dive watch will allow you to easily keep track of the time. Feel free to bring other items when diving in freshwater, but don’t forget to bring the aforementioned essentials.

Freshwater Diving Safety 101: What You Need to Know

While riptides are less common in freshwater, injury can still occur if you don’t take the appropriate safety precautions when diving. However, that shouldn’t stop you from advancing your diving skills into freshwater environments. By following some basic safety tips, you can safely explore freshwater environments.

Here are some general safety tips to follow when diving in freshwater:

  • Invest a high-quality, adjustable diving mask to improve your underwater visibility.
  • Always dive with at least one other person (don’t go solo diving in freshwater).
  • Beware of potential hazards hidden on the bottom. From old boats and anchors to fishing lures and fallen trees, there are a variety of potential hazards lurking at the bottom of freshwater environments.
  • Plan your freshwater dives during the daylight hours. While diving at night may sound peaceful and serene, you can expect a cooler water temperature as well as lower visibility than daytime diving.
  • Inspect and check all your gear before jumping into the water.
  • Stay within a reasonable distance from the boat or shore. If you swim too far when diving in freshwater, you may not have the energy to make it back.
  • As with saltwater diving, you should follow the rule of thirds when diving in freshwater. This means you should use no more than one-third of your total air supply during the descent and no more than one-third of your total air supply when ascending back to the surface. The remaining one-third of air is a reserve for emergency purposes.
  • Because the human body is more buoyant in saltwater, you’ll need to use less weight to achieve neutral buoyancy than you would when diving in saltwater.

Log Your Freshwater Dives

Don’t forget to log your freshwater dives. Some people assume that dive logs should only be used for saltwater dives, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. You should always log your dive, regardless of whether it was a saltwater or freshwater dive.

By logging your freshwater divers, you’ll have a written record of your experience that you can use for future reference purposes. You’ll know exactly how much air you used, how long you stayed underwater, the temperature of the water and more. How does this information benefit you exactly? Well, you can refer to your dive logs when planning future dives in freshwater environments. If you were particularly cold during the dive, for instance, you can wear a thicker diving suit the next time you go diving in similar freshwater conditions.

Want to create your own custom dive logs? Contact us today to learn more about our custom dive logs.

/by

Traveling Light: What to Pack for Your Next Scuba Diving Adventure:

How much equipment do you typically use when scuba diving? There’s no denying the fact that diving requires a fair amount of equipment. And if you don’t bring the right items, you may be forced to wait on the boat while the rest of your group dives.

With that said, many divers make the mistake of overpacking. While there’s nothing wrong with being prepared, packing unnecessary items may leave you feeling overburdened. You’ll have to keep up with each item that you bring, which is both stressful and laborious. By packing light, however, you’ll have a safe and enjoyable diving adventure without being encumbered by unnecessary equipment.

Scuba Mask

You’ll obviously need to pack a scuba mask for your next diving adventure. Some divers neglect to pack their own scuba mask, believing they can purchase a new one at their destination. While most beaches, as well as other diving destinations, have retail stores that sell masks, these aren’t high-quality masks. They are typically low-quality masks that fail to create a waterproof seal when worn.

Using a low-quality mask is never a good idea when diving. If it begins to leak, water will flood your face, which may cause you to panic when you’re diving well below the water’s surface. You should be able to clear your mask by forcefully exhaling through your nose if this occurs, but you can often prevent instances of mask flooding by packing a high-quality scuba mask.

Scuba masks typically fall under one of two categories:

  1. Full-Face Masks: As the name suggests, full-face masks cover your entire face when worn, including your nose, eyes and mouth.
  2. Half-Face Masks: On the other hand, half-face masks only cover your nose and eyes when worn.

Fins

In addition to a diving suit and scuba mask — or two scuba masks if you want a backup — you should pack fins for your next diving adventure. While wearing fins, you’ll be able to swim faster and more efficiently, allowing for a longer total bottom time (TBT). Although there are dozens of different fins on the market, nearly all of them are designed to mimic a fish’s tail. They have a large surface while consisting of a thin material. As a result, kicking your legs and feet while wearing fins propels you through the water with greater force.

Because of their small size, fins shouldn’t take up too much space in your luggage. You can usually place them on top of your clothes or other diving equipment. Just remember to wrap your fins in a plastic bag so that they don’t spread dirt or debris.

Diving Suit

When choosing items to bring on your next diving adventure, don’t forget a diving suit. Depending on the climate, as well as the depth at which you dive, you may encounter bone-chilling water temperatures. The deeper you dive, the colder the water becomes. As salt sinks to the ocean floor, the water becomes denser towards the surface. Therefore, water at or near the surface feels warmer than water at deeper depths. Wearing a diving suit, however, will insulate your body to protect against the cold water.

Like with scuba masks, there are two primary types of diving suits, including the following:

  1. Wetsuit: Typically made of neoprene, wetsuits are designed to insulate your body using water. Water enters the wetsuit, at which point it will be heated by your body.
  2. Drysuit: Available in neoprene, rubber or nylon, drysuits are designed to insulate your body using air. They feature a sealed design that prevents the intrusion of water, meaning they will keep your body both warm and dry. Drysuits are more expensive than their wetsuit counterparts, but many divers will agree they are worth the extra cost.

You can learn more about the differences between wetsuits and dry suits by checking out this Scuba Diving International (SDI) article.

Breathing Apparatus

Of course, you’ll need to pack a breathing apparatus as well. For most divers, this will be their largest piece of diving equipment. Breathing apparatuses actually consist of several individual items, including one or more gas tanks, a regulator, gauges and hoses. Using all these items, you’ll be able to breathe underwater without needing to resurface every few minutes for fresh air.

Most divers prefer to use conventional air in their gas tanks. In other words, the air stored in their gas tanks is the same air found outside. It consists of roughly 21% oxygen, 78% nitrogen and about 1% filler or trace gases (e.g. argon).  The air is filtered and compressed into a gas tank, at which point the diver can equip it to his or her diving suit. But some divers, especially those diving at deep depths, prefer using a special mixture of gas rather than plain air. Known as nitrox, it consists of anywhere from 22% to 40% oxygen.

Buoyancy Control Device

Assuming it’s not built into your diving suit, you should pack a buoyancy control device (BCD). Also known as a buoyancy commentator device, it allows you to control your buoyancy when diving. Attempting to dive without a BCD is never a good idea. Even if you’re able to swim to the desired depth, you may sink farther than anticipated from the added weight of all your gear. By wearing a BCD, you can maintain your desired depth without floating or sinking.

How does a BCD work exactly? It consists of an inflatable vest that’s worn around your chest. If you want to ascend, you can fill the vest with air that’s supplied by your gas tank. Air will travel from the gas tank into the vest, at which point you’ll begin to float. If you want to descend, you can release some or all of the air from the BCD.

Travel Scuba Log Binder

A travel scuba log binder is a smart investment for all divers, regardless of skill level or experience. Available for sale here at Dive Logz, it’s a travel-sized six-ring binder that’s designed for storing dive logs as well as other documents.

A travel scuba log binder isn’t just an ordinary binder, though. It features a water-resistant construction, as well as a moisture-protecting rubber membrane interior, to keep your dive logs dry. As a result, your dive logs will remain protected. If you don’t use a travel scuba log binder, on the other hand, they may get wet, which could result in smeared ink or other forms of damage. It’s frustrating when you spend the time and energy to complete a dive log, only for the dive log to get damaged. By storing your dive logs in a travel scuba log binder, you can prevent this from happening.

Dry Bag

Even if you invest in a Travel Scuba Binder, you should still bring a dry bag on your next diving adventure. It’s no secret that water and electronics don’t mix. If you leave your smartphone or tablet computer exposed on the boat, it may sustain permanent damage from splashed water. Storing your mobile device in a dry bag, however, gives you peace of mind knowing that it’s protected from water-related damage such as this. Dry bags are made of a waterproof material that, when sealed, keeps their contents dry.

Don’t make the mistake of overpacking on your next diving adventure. Stick with the basics by focusing on the items listed here. You may need to bring other items, but the necessities for a safe and enjoyable diving adventure include a scuba mask, fins, diving suit, breathing apparatus, BCD, travel scuba log binder and dry bag.

Want to create your own custom dive logs? Contact us today to learn more about our custom dive logs. Travel Binderz

/by

10 Essential Tips for Safe Diving

Diving is a fun and memorable recreational activity that’s enjoyed by millions of people throughout the world. With that said, it isn’t without risks. According to the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI), 50 people were killed while diving in 2014. While the rate of fatality among divers is low compared to other recreational activities — including jogging, swimming and horseback riding — fatalities can and do occur. Regardless of where you’re planning to dive,  you should follow these 10 essential tips for safe diving.

#1) Don’t Hold Your Breath

For a safe dive, you must breathe properly while underwater by inhaling and exhaling just as you normally do on land. Inexperienced divers tend to hold their breath. After all, it’s only natural to hold your breath when you’re swimming dozens of feet below the surface. When you hold your breath, though, air will remain trapped inside your lungs. As you ascend, this air will expand while subsequently creating pressure. If the pressure becomes too high, the lining of your lungs — known as the alveoli — may rupture.

#2) Use a Surface Marker Buoy

Always use a surface marker buoy when diving to mark your location. Also known simply as a blog, a surface marker buoy is a floating device that’s intended to mark a diver’s location. They typically look like bright- or red-colored pool noodles that, when deployed, float the surface. Surface marker buoys are connected to the diver by a string or rope. When diving, you’ll tow the string or rope, allowing the surface marker buoy to move with you. If a boat happens to pass by while you are underwater, the captain will know that you are diving nearby by the presence of the surface marker buoy. As a result, you should get into the habit of deploying a surface marker buoy each time you dive.

#3) Carry Line Cutters

Why should you carry line cutters when diving? Well, there’s an unfortunate amount of debris littering the oceans. In addition to trash, you’ll probably discover fishing lines and nets floating about. If you happen to get tangled in a line or net, you may struggle to escape. Using a pair of line cutters, however, you can cut the line or net. Some divers carry a knife instead of line cutters, but line cutters are typically safer to use because of their enclosed design. They feature two blades that are shielded with plastic. To cut a line or net, simply place it through the narrow opening of the line cutters, at which point the two blades should cut through it.

#4) Log Your Dives

Logging your dives can reduce the risk of injury when diving. In a dive log, you’ll record specific information about the dive. The header section, for example, allows you to record the date, time and location of the dive, whereas the equipment section allows you to record the type of equipment used during the dive. There’s even a comments section where you can record any other pertinent or otherwise important information. By completing a dive log after each dive, you’ll have a better understanding of what to expect during future dives. You can also use this information to better prepare yourself. If you were uncomfortably cold during a dive, as recorded in the dive log, perhaps you can wear a thicker wetsuit the next time you dive in similar conditions. Alternatively, if you found yourself running low on air, as recorded in the dive log, you can bring a larger air supply.

#5) Partner Up

There’s safety in numbers, and diving is no exception. As explained in a previous blog post, diving with a buddy is inherently safer than diving alone. If you dive alone, also known as solo diving, you won’t have anyone to assist you if a hazard or emergency occurs. If your regulator stops working, for example, you’ll have to resurface without access to fresh air. If you dive with a buddy, on the other hand, he or she can provide you with their regulator. That doesn’t necessarily mean that solo diving is dangerous. Rather, the risk of injury is lower when diving with a buddy because there’s someone to watch your back at all times.

#6) Follow the Rule of Thirds

What is the rule of thirds, and why should you follow it when diving? The rule of thirds is an air consumption rule stating that you should use no more than one-third of your air supply when descending and one-third when ascending during the return. Of course, that still leaves one-third of your total air supply remaining, which is intended as a reserve supply. If you don’t follow the rule of thirds, you may inadvertently consume too much air, resulting in a dwindling air supply that may be insufficient for your ascent to the surface. The rule of thirds ensures that you always extra air in case of an emergency.

#7) Know Hand Signals

Assuming you dive with a buddy, you’ll need to know how to communicate using hand signals. When you’re underwater, you probably won’t be able to communicate using your voice. Instead, you’ll need to use hand signals. Over the years, certain hand signals have become synonymous with specific messages when diving. The thumbs-up signal, for example, indicates that you want to ascend, whereas the thumbs-down signal indicates that you want to descend. For more information on diving hand signals, as well as other forms of underwater communication, click here.

#8) Relax Your Body

Keep your body relaxed when diving so that you don’t consume an excessive amount of air. Some divers are guilty of tensing their body. When your body is tense, however, your respiratory rate will increase, meaning you’ll consume more air. At the same time, tensing your body will restrict your ability to swim and navigate. It may take a little practice, but you must learn to relax your diving when diving. By keeping your body relaxed, you’ll be able to breathe and swim more efficiently, which may lower your risk of injury.

#9) Ascend Slowly

It’s important to ascend slowly, especially when diving at deep depths. Most diving experts recommend ascending no faster than 30 feet per minute. During the ascent, you should also stop every 15 feet for about three or four minutes. When ascending, your body will release nitrogen from its blood and tissues. If you ascend too quickly, the trapped nitrogen will expand, which could lead to a serious and potentially fatal medical condition known as the bends or decompression sickness. To prevent this from happening, you must ascend slowly, especially when diving at deep depths.

#10) Get Certified

If you’re serious about diving and want to take your skills to the next level, consider taking a diving certification course. PADI offers a variety of certification courses, some of which include Open Water Diver, Advanced Water Diver, Rescue Diver, Master Scuba Diver, Divemaster and Adaptive Support Diver. Alternative, Scuba Diving International (SDI) offers courses like Open Water Scuba Diver. Each of these courses focuses on a specific curriculum. However, they will all help you become a better, safer diver. Just remember to log your dives, as many certification courses require a minimum number of logged and verified dives to enroll.

Want to create your own custom dive logs? Contact us today to learn more about our custom dive logs.

/by

Diving With Sharks: Is It Dangerous?

Seeing a shark’s dorsal fin darting across the surface of the water is enough to strike fear into the hearts and minds of most divers. After all, sharks — especially great whites — are largely regarded as the apex predators of the oceans. They swim through the water at lightning-fast speed, stalking and attacking even the most cautious marine animals. As a result, you might be wondering whether it’s dangerous to dive with sharks. While conventional wisdom leads many divers to believe that shark encounters can cause serious injury or even death, this isn’t necessarily true.

Overview of Sharks

Sharks are medium- and large-sized fish that are characterized by a cartilage-based skeletal structure. Like other fish, sharks have bones. Their bones made of conventional calcium and collagen, however. They are made of cartilage — the same substance from which our noses are made.

It’s unknown exactly why sharks have a cartilage-based skeletal structure, though some marine biologists believe it offers an evolutionary advantage over conventional bones. Cartilage bones, for example, are lighter and more flexible than conventional bones. As a result, sharks can dart through the water with minimal effort. In addition to being lightweight and flexible, cartilage bones are able to heal more quickly than conventional bones. If a shark sustains a skeletal injury, it can quickly heal the damaged bone or bones.

There are currently over 500 known species of sharks. With an average length of just 6.7 inches when fully grown, the dwarf lanternshark is the smallest species. The largest species is the whale shark, which can reach lengths of over 40 feet when fully grown. Each species has a unique appearance, as well as behaviors, but they are all characterized by a cartilage-based skeletal system.

Of course, sharks are most known for their predatory behavior. Sitting comfortably at the top of the aquatic food chain, they feast on a variety of marine animals.

Depending on the particular species, a typical shark’s diet may consist of the following:

  • Fish
  • Molluscs
  • Dolphins
  • Sea lions
  • Shrimp
  • Crabs
  • Seals
  • Porpoises

Shark Attacks: What You Should Know

Contrary to the image portrayed in mainstream media, shark attacks on humans are pretty rare. According to National Geographic, there is an average of just 19 shark attacks on humans each year in the United States. Furthermore, statistics show an average of one person is killed by a shark every two years in the United States. Based on these figures, the odds of being attacked by a shark when swimming or diving in the ocean is about one in 11.5 million, whereas the odds of being killed during a shark attack is just one in 264 million.

Why the Irrational Fear About Sharks?

If shark attacks involving humans are rare, why do so many people fear these marine animals? In the past, sharks were considered just another fish in the ocean. Millions of people would visit the beach to swim in the ocean with little or no fear of sharks. It wasn’t until the mid-1970s when the public’s perception of sharks took a dramatic turn.

In 1975, the American action and thriller movie “Jaws” was released in thousands of theaters throughout the United States. Although it received critical acclaim — and is now considered one of the greatest movies ever made — it fostered an irrational fear for sharks. As you may now, “Jaws” is an adaption of American author Peter Benchley’s novel. It tells the story of a vicious great white shark that attacks and terrorizes swimmers on Amity Island, New England.

It’s important to note that “Jaws” was based on a true story. In 1916, a group of swimmers were attacked by a great white shark off the coast of New Jersey. This prompted Benchley to write the novel “Jaws,” which was later adapted into a movie of the same name. But both the novel and movie portrayed great white sharks as being overly aggressive and even vengeful. In “Jaws,” the great white antagonist hunts specific people — a behavior that’s not truly exhibited by great whites or any other shark species. In the months and years following its release, “Jaws” essentially changed the way in which the public viewed sharks. No longer were sharks considered just another fish in the ocean; they were considered fierce beasts that stalked and hunted humans.

Can I Safely Dive With Sharks?

It’s perfectly fine, as well as safe, to dive with sharks — assuming you take a few basic safety precautions. As previously mentioned, shark attacks on humans are rare, with just 19 shark attacks occurring each year in the United States. With that said, shark attacks on humans can and do occur. Most attacks, however, are at least partly attributed to human neglect or error. By taking a few basic safety precautions, you can safely dive with sharks.

If you have a cut or other open wound, you should think twice before getting into the water. Sharks have an excellent sense of smell. Great white sharks, for example, can smell blood from up to three miles away. This doesn’t necessarily mean that you’ll be attacked by a shark if you’re bleeding. However, blood can certainly attract inquisitive sharks, some of which may approach you to see if you are food.

It’s a good idea to avoid diving in murky or otherwise cloudy waters with poor visibility. Some species of sharks, such as the bull shark, hunt for prey in conditions such as this. But if a shark can’t see you, it won’t know whether you are prey. The only way it will know is by biting you. While the shark will probably leave after its initial “test” bite, it’s still best to avoid this scenario by diving in clear waters with high visibility.

When preparing to dive with sharks, make sure that you aren’t wearing any jewelry. What’s wrong with jewelry exactly? Well, sharks — like many other fish — are attracted to shiny things in the water. Sharks hunt and eat a variety of shiny fish. If you’re wearing metal jewelry, such as a watch or ring, a passing shark may assume it’s a small fish.

If you happen to encounter a shark when diving, don’t try and touch it. Most sharks are docile and won’t perceive you a threat. Nonetheless, if a shark is startled or feels threatened, it may lash out when touched. Regardless of the species, don’t touch any sharks that you encounter when diving. Simply observe them from a safe distance while maintaining a heightened sense of awareness to your surroundings.

There’s also a Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) course that’s designed to teach divers more about sharks and their behaviors. Known as the Project AWARE Shark Conservation Specialty course, it’s available to all divers 12 years of age and older who’ve completed the Open Water Diver course. By enrolling in the Project AWARE Shark Conservation Specialty course, you’ll learn more about the important role sharks play in marine ecosystems, the different behaviors exhibited by the different shark species, and even how to safely dive with sharks.

What About Cage Diving?

Some people prefer cage diving with sharks. Cage diving allows you to observe sharks while diving inside a metal cage. It’s a common practice that’s been around since the 1950s, during which French naval officer and explorer Jacques Cousteau created the world’s first shark cage. Since then, it’s become an increasingly popular way for divers to observe sharks in their natural habitat.

The downside to cage diving, however, is that it doesn’t offer the same level of freedom as open-water diving. When diving inside a cage, you won’t be able to move around. Therefore, you won’t have the same experience as you would with open-water diving. For the most authentic experience, you should stick with open-diving water. As long as you follow the tips outlined above, you’ll have a safe and enjoyable diving experience.

Want to create your own custom dive logs? Contact us today to learn more about our custom dive logs.

/by

Where to Find Hammerhead Sharks

,

With their distinct hammer-shaped head, hammerhead sharks are some of the most recognizable fish in the oceans. Unlike most other sharks, they don’t have a traditional head. Rather, hammerheads have an elongated and flattened head that extends out to their right and left sides. If you’re an avid diver who appreciates the unique beauty of these sharks, you might be wondering where to find them. While hammerheads are native to a variety of aquatic regions, there are a few steps you can take to increase your chances of encountering them when diving.

What Are Hammerhead Sharks?

Before we reveal where to find hammerheads, let’s take a closer look at this majestic shark. Contrary to what some divers believe, the hammerhead isn’t a specific species of shark. Rather, the term “hammerhead” refers to any shark featuring a characteristically hammer-shaped head. Most hammerheads are in the Sphyrna genus, though some are categorized in a different genus. The winghead hammerhead, for example, is placed in the Eusphyra genus.

Marine biologists believe that hammerhead sharks have their hammer-head shapes for increases sensory reception. The general belief is that their hammer-shaped head allows these sharks to hunt prey more easily, which certainly makes sense. Regardless, you can easily distinguish hammerheads from other types of sharks by looking at their head. If it’s elongated and flattened, it’s a hammerhead.

Here are some fun facts about hammerheads:

  • While most hammerheads have a gray body, their bellies are white to provide camouflage when viewed from below.
  • During the daytime hours, hammerheads often swim in large groups of up to 100 or more. During the evening and nighttime hours, they swim alone so that they can hunt prey more effectively.
  • Hammerheads have evolved over the course of some 20 million years. Marine biologists believe that modern-day hammerheads are descendants of the ancient Miocene shark.
  • The average length of a full-growth adult hammerhead is approximately 5 to 20 feet.
  • Hammerheads can grow quite large, with some hammerheads weighing as much as much 1,300 pounds.
  • With their hammer-shaped head, hammerheads have a complete 360-degree field of vision, allowing for superior sensory reception when compared to other types of sharks.
  • Hammerheads mate once a year.
  • A typical diet for a hammerhead consists of fish, octopus, shrimp, stingrays and even other sharks.
  • When a hammerhead attacks a stingray, it will use its head to pin the stingray down against the bottom of the ocean floor.
  • The average litter size of a hammerhead is approximately 12 to 15 pups. Some hammerheads, however,m have been known to give birth to up to 40 pups.
  • Hammerhead pups typically swim together until they are large enough to survive on their own.
  • There are nine species of hammerhead sharks, each of which has a distinct appearance.
  • No human fatalities by a hammerhead have ever been recorded.
  • The average lifespan for a hammerhead is roughly 25 to 35 years.
  • Hammerheads are known to perform mass migrations during the summer.
  • Bonnethead hammerheads have been known to consume a substantial amount of seagrass. According to some studies, up to half of a bonnethead hammerhead’s diet may consist of seagrass.
  • Hammerheads are some of the ocean’s most adept predators, primarily because of their high sensory reception attributed to their hammer-shaped head.
  • Like with other sharks, hammerhead teeth are often found as fossils.
  • Hammerheads are considered “gods of the ocean” in Hawaii.

How Common Are Hammerhead Sharks?

When compared to other types of sharks, hammerheads are somewhat rare. The most common type of hammerhead is the bonnethead. Unfortunately, though, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has listed several types of hammerheads as vulnerable, including the smalleye and smooth hammerhead. The scalloped hammerhead and winghead hammerhead have even been given the endangered status, attesting to their rarity.

Where to Find Hammerhead Sharks When Diving

Although hammerheads are somewhat rare, you can still find them when diving — you just need to know where to look. Hammerheads thrive in warm and shallow coastal waters. You typically won’t find them far north or south, nor will you find them in hundreds or thousands of miles away from the coast. Rather, all nine species of hammerheads prefer warm and shallow coastal waters. So, if you’re hoping to encounter a hammerhead, you’ll need to choose a dive site that’s located in shallow, warm waters near a coast.

Costa Rica is a popular destination for divers looking to encounter hammerheads.  Specifically, large groups of hammerheads are often found in the waters surrounding Costa Rica’s Cocos Island. Located roughly 342 miles southwest of Costa Rica’s main island, it features rich coral reefs off the coast. Marine biologists, in fact, have identified over 30 species of coral reefs native to Coco Island’s waters. The coral reefs attract a variety of fish, as well as other marine life, that are commonly consumed by hammerheads.

Another destination where you’ll have a good shot at encountering hammerheads is the waters off the coast of Hawaii. Oahu Island’s Keehi Lagoon, for example, contains large schools of scalloped hammerheads. Scalloped hammerheads are endangered, so you probably won’t see them elsewhere.

In addition to Costa Rica and Hawaii, other coastal waters frequently inhabited by hammerheads include Columbia, South Africa and Ecuador. Keep in mind, though, that hammerheads often migrate to cooler waters during the summer. As a result, you may want to plan your hammerhead-searching dive trip for the early or late summer months.

How to Stay Safe When Diving Around Hammerhead Sharks

While the thought of diving around sharks may sound unnerving, you can rest assured knowing that hammerheads are docile. According to the International Shark Attack File — a global database that records and manages instances of shark attacks — there have only been 17 documented cases in which a hammerhead has attacked a person without provocation. Considering that millions of people swim and dive in the waters where hammerheads call home, that’s pretty impressive. And as previously mentioned, no one has ever been killed by a hammerhead.

With that said, there are still a few rules you should follow when diving around hammerheads to lower your risk of injury. First and foremost, never attempt to touch a hammerhead (or any other shark for that matter). You should also pay attention to your gas supply. When you’re busy marveling a large group of passing hammerheads, you may overlook your gas supply. As a result, you’ll consume a significant amount of gas without realizing it. Regardless of where you are diving, try to get into the habit of checking your gas supply at least once every five to 10 minutes.

You may also want to avoid diving at night. Hammerheads are nocturnal predators that hunt for prey at night. Therefore, they are more aggressive during the nighttime hours than the daytime hours. Of course, another reason to dive during the daytime is because hammerheads swim in large groups during the daytime. At nighttime, on the other hand, they become more solidarity. For these reasons, it’s best to dive for hammerheads during the daytime.

Express your love for this majestic shark by purchasing a hammerhead dive log book today! Featuring a hammerhead shark on the cover, it offers 50 high-quality dive log pages that you can use to record and document your dives. Each hammerhead dive log book is individually wrapped in a poly sleeve to protect your dive logs from damage.

/by

How to Become a Pro Diver

There’s an old saying that if you do something you love, you’ll never work a day in your life. By choosing a job that you enjoy, you won’t really be “working.” You’ll be enjoying life while making money in the progress. Therefore, you might be considering a career as a professional diver. From underwater photography and videography to diving instructor, rescue operations and more, there are numerous diving careers available. With that said, transitioning from a recreational to a professional diver requires hard work and dedication.

Learn Buoyancy Control

Ask any professional diver and he or she will likely agree: Buoyancy control is one of the most important skills used when diving for commercial purposes. If you’re unable to control your buoyancy, you’ll consume an excess amount of energy. You may begin sinking to the bottom of the ocean floor, for example, so you kick your legs and feet to ascend. Alternatively, you may start floating up, so you’re forced to swim back down. Regardless of which diving career you are interested in, you’ll need to learn buoyancy control.

You can use either a weight belt or a buoyancy control device (BCD) to control your buoyancy. A weight belt is a belt featuring attachable weights that you wear around your waist, whereas a BCD is a vest with an inflatable and deflatable bladder that you wear over your wetsuit. Weight belts are easier to use, but BCDs offer greater control over your buoyancy. Whether you use a weight belt or BCD, you should learn its mechanics so that you can effectively control your buoyancy when diving.

Learn How to Clear Your Mask

In addition to buoyancy control, another essential skill used by professional divers is mask clearing. Mask clearing refers to the process of blowing air through your nose to expel any trapped water. It’s not uncommon for water to breach the seal of a dive mask. As water creeps into your mask, you may panic not knowing what to do.

To clear a flooded dive mask, press down on the top section of the seal and exhale through your nose. Assuming you exhale with enough force, it should blow out the trapped water so that you can see more clearly. Check out this previous blog post for more tips on how to clear your mask. As with most diving skills, though, practice makes perfect. The more you practice clearing your mask, the better you’ll become at this essential diving skill.

Optimize and Conserve Gas Usage

How much gas do you typically use when diving? As a professional diver, you’ll need to optimize and conserve your gas usage. Commercial dives can last for well over an hour, and if you consume your gas too more quickly, you may have to cut your dive short.

Here are some tips to optimize and conserve gas usage when diving:

  • Inspect gas tanks and lines for leaks, and if you discover any, fix them before your next dive.
  • Take slow and deep breathes through your regulator.
  • Learn proper buoyancy control (see above).
  • When possible, stay at a shallow depth.
  • Invest in a high-quality, commercial-grade pair of diving fins.
  • Get a good night’s rest before diving.
  • Stay calm and don’t panic.
  • Record your gas usage in a dive log.
  • Maintain a streamlined position with your body.
  • Choose a wetsuit that offers an adequate amount of thermal protection for the water in which you are diving.
  • While holding your breath may sound like an effective way to conserve gas usage, it actually has the opposite effect by forcing your body to consume more gas.
  • Stay in place while diving rather than swimming around.

Start Logging Your Dives

If you aren’t doing so already, you should start logging your dives. By completing a dive log for each of your dives, you’ll have a written record of your underwater experiences. You can then use this information to better prepare yourself for future dives. If you discovered that one gas tank was insufficient for a particular dive, for example, you may want to bring two gas tanks. Alternatively, if a dive log shows that a 3 mm wetsuit didn’t offer enough thermal protection, you’ll know to wear a thicker wetsuit, such as a 5 mm wetsuit, when diving in similar waters.

More importantly, dive logs reveal your diving experience. When you complete a dive, you can ask the instructor or a buddy to sign it. If you want to start a diving career, the employer may inquire about the number of logged dives you’ve completed. You can then show the employer your verified dive logs, which have been signed by an instructor or buddy. Furthermore, many diving certification courses require a minimum number of logged dives. All divers should log their dives, but this practice is particularly important for those looking to transitioning into professional diving.

Practice Nighttime Dives

As a recreational diver, you probably won’t perform many nighttime dives. After all, it’s more enjoyable to dive during the daylight hours when there’s better visibility. As a professional diver, though, you may not have the luxury of choosing when you dive. Some diving occupations require nighttime diving. Therefore, you should practice diving at night.

Nighttime dives require the use of high-powered, underwater dive lights. It’s a good idea to carry both a primary dive light as well as a secondary backup dive light. If your primary dive light fails, you can use the secondary dive light to illuminating your surrounding environment. Nighttime dives can be daunting for newcomers, but it’s a good skill to learn if you’re planning to become a professional diver. Just remember to bring at least dive lights when venturing into deep waters at night.

Build Connections When Diving

With the exception of solo diving, diving is a social activity that allows you to meet and interact with other like-minded people. Some dive charter groups consist of over a dozen divers. As a result, you can use this opportunity to build connections in the diving industry. Some divers in your group may be professional divers, and by talking to them, you can learn more about the industry and how to enter it. If you’re interested in becoming a diving instructor, you can ask your instructor for more information on the requirements. The bottom line is that you should use this opportunity to network and build connections. Even if it’s a recreational dive, you can gain insight into the commercial diving industry by socializing with your instructor and group.

Get PADI Certified

You can’t expect to become a professional diver without certification. The Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) offers several diving certification courses. At minimum, you should complete the Open Water Diver course and the Advanced Open Water Diver course (the former is a prerequisite for the latter). Depending on which diving professional are seeking, you may want to explore other PADI courses as well as, including the Divemaster course or Rescue Diver course. Keep in mind, each course has its requirements, so you should check to see whether you meet the criteria before attempting to enroll.

The binderz and refillz are the perfect way to track your progress so you can work on your dives and become a pro.

/by

Wateproof Dry Tech Bag

Want to know the secret to having a safe and enjoyable dive? It’s bringing the right items. While most divers know the importance of bringing a wetsuit, mask, regulator and gas tank, there are other essential items that you shouldn’t ignore. Regardless of when and where you’re planning to dive next, the five following essentials will promote a safer and more enjoyable diving experience.

#1) Underwater Camera

You’ll encounter a wide variety of marine life when diving, some of which may include fish, mollusks, turtles, squid, sharks, jellyfish, dolphins and even whales. Without a waterproof camera, though, you won’t be able to capture these moments on film. You can always make a written note of the marine life you enter when diving on a dive log, but there’s no substitution for capturing these memories on film.

Of course, you can’t use just any camera to take photos of marine life when diving. Unless it’s a waterproof camera that’s designed specifically for underwater usage, it will almost certainly sustain damage. Underwater cameras have been around since the 1960s, during which French diver and underwater explorer Jacques Cousteau helped develop the Calypso. Since then, countless other underwater cameras have been released.

#2) Scuba Fins

Don’t forget to bring a pair of high-quality scuba fins on your next diving trip. Also known as swim fins, scuba fins are fin-like accessories that you wear on your feet when diving or swimming. They are typically made of soft materials like rubber, carbon fiber or plastic, which allow them to flex as you kick your feet.

The purpose of wearing scuba fins is to improve your ability to swim through the water. As humans, our feet are too small — and not the right shape — to effectively propel our bodies through the water. You can achieve some level of propulsion and momentum when kicking your feet, but you’ll use a lot of energy while covering little ground (or water) in the process. And because kicking your bare feet consumes so much energy, you’ll expend your gas supply more quickly.

Scuba fins offer a solution to this problem by making your kicks more efficient. When wearing them, you’ll create more propulsion with your kicks, so remember to bring scuba fins on your next driving trip. If you’re familiar with scuba fins, you should already know how to wear them use.

There are two primary types of scuba fins, including the following:

  • Bifins: The most common type, bifins consist of a pair of long and narrow fins. Bifins are popular among swimmers and divers because they are simple and easy to use. You place each of your feet in one of the two fins, after which you kick your feet to propel yourself through the water.
  • Monofins: On the other hand, monofins consist of a single large fin that features two pockets for your feet. When wearing monofins, you’ll be forced to keep your feet together at all times. Freedivers often prefer monofins over bifins because they allow for faster and more efficient ascensions as well as descension.

If you’re a newcomer to the sport of diving, though, try to keep your legs straight when kicking. If you bend your knees, you’ll exhaust a greater amount of energy. For fast and efficient kicking while wearing scuba fins, twist your hips while kicking your feet in a flutter-like motion.

#3) Waterproof Bag

You should also bring a waterproof bag on your next diving trip. Why is this an essential diving item exactly? Well, you’ll be obviously be surrounded by water when diving, and if you want to bring electronics or other non-waterproof items, you’ll need some type of waterproof accessory in which to store them. A waterproof bag solves this problem by offering a safe and secure area in which to store your items. Whether you’re sitting on the beach or taking a boat to your dive site, you can rest assured knowing that your items won’t sustain damage from water exposure. A waterproof bag creates an airtight seal that keeps water out, thereby protecting the contents from damage.

Some waterproof bags will even allow you to use your smartphone while it’s stored inside. As shown to the left, the Wateproof Dry Tech Bag sold here at Dive Logz is completely waterproof, yet it still allows you to use your smartphone. This is in stark contrast to most other waterproof bags. With other waterproof bags, you’ll have to take your smartphone out to use it.

That’s just one of many reasons to choose the Waterproof Dry Tech Bag. Not only does it support smartphone usage; it comes with a lanyard as well. Using the lanyard, you can wear the Waterproof Dry Tech Bag around your neck so that you don’t lose or misplace it.

#4) Water-Resistant Dive Log Book

In addition to a waterproof bag, remember to bring a water-resistant dive log book. As may already know, a dive log book is a binder in which you store your dive logs. Rather than carrying “loose” dive logs, you can store them in a book. But not all dive log books are water-resistant. Some offer little or no protection against water. If you happen to store your dive logs in one of these non-water-resistant books, they may succumb to damage. As water makes its way onto your dive logs, it can smear the ink, making your entries illegible. So, always store your dive logs in a water-resistant log book.

When your dive logs are stored in a water-resistant log book, small amounts of water won’t harm your dive logs. If a large wave happens to crest in front of your boat, your dive logs will remain dry. Some water-resistant dive log books contain other features besides a water-resistant design. The Scuba Diving Log Binders, for example, feature various compartments for cards, pens and other small items. And if you order your Scuba Diving Log Binder now, you’ll receive 50 free dive logs at no additional charge, which you can use to fill your new water-resistant dive log book.

#5) Diving Gloves

Why should you bring diving gloves on your next dive trip? While they aren’t necessarily as important as a wetsuit or regulator, this otherwise simple diving accessory offers several noteworthy benefits. When wearing a pair of high-quality diving gloves, your hands will be protected from injury. It’s not uncommon for divers to cut their hands on coral, sharp rocks, shipwrecks, fishing lures or even their own equipment. If you happen to cut yourself underwater, you’ll have to resurface to seek treatment, meaning a shorter and less-enjoyable dive. A pair of diving gloves, however, will protect your hands from cuts and scrapes.

Another benefit of wearing diving gloves is that they keep your hands warm. You won’t always have the luxury of diving in 90-degree waters. Depending on the region and day of year in which you go diving — as well as your depth — the waters may be as cool as 70 degrees. A wetsuit will insulate your body to protect your torso, arms and legs from the cold water, but your hands will likely be exposed. Thankfully, diving gloves add an insulating layer of protection over your hands, allowing you to comfortably dive in cold waters.

Pick up your essential Drybagz and Water-Resistant Log Book today!

/by

Underwater Communication: How to Communicate When Diving

,

Unless you’re performing a solo dive, you’ll probably be paired up at least one other diver. While you can always converse with other divers on the boat, this isn’t always possible once you’re in the water. Sound waves still travel through the water. In fact, they travel approximately 500% faster in the water than in the air. The problem is that underwater sound waves don’t trigger the same vibrations in your inner ear as those in the air, so you can’t hear as easily when diving. With that said, there are still several ways to communicate with other divers after descending below the surface.

The Importance of Underwater Communication

Although it sounds like a meaningless skill, knowing how to communicate with other divers below the surface is important for several reasons. First, it allows you to convey potential hazards that could otherwise cause injury to either yourself or another diver. If you are running low on air, you can inform your buddy so that you can use his or her regulator. If you want to travel in a different direction, you can communicate this to your buddy so that he or she can follow you.

You can also use underwater communication to notify your buddy about the presence of marine life. While shark attacks involving divers are incredibly rare — especially when diving in groups rather than alone — most divers want to keep a safe distance from these majestic sea creatures. Using the right method of underwater communication, you can let your buddy know if there’s a shark approaching.

Let’s face it, underwater communication makes diving more enjoyable. If you aren’t able to communicate, you won’t be able to fully share the diving experience with your buddy. For these reasons and others, you should learn at least one method of underwater communication.

Hand Signals

Perhaps the easiest way to communicate when diving is to use hand signals. The World Recreational Scuba Training Council has created a set of universal hand signals for divers. Using hand gestures, you can convey information to your dive buddy. It’s an easy yet effective way to communicate when diving.

Some of the most common hand signals used to communicate when diving include the following:

  • Thumbs Up: Raising a single hand and using the thumbs up gesture means you want to ascend.
  • Thumbs Down: Conversely, raising and single hand and using the thumbs down gesture means you want to descend.
  • OK: Creating a circle with one hand by closing your thumb and index finger means you are safe or okay.
  • Hands Over Head: Another way to convey that you are safe or okay is to place both hands over your head. This method is preferred when underwater visibility is limited, as it’s easier for divers to see than the OK hand signal.
  • Raised Hand With Palm Exposed:  Raising a single hand with the palm exposed means stop.
  • Raised Index Finger Turning in a Circular Motion: Raising an index finger and turning it in a circular motion means you want to turn around or reverse direction.
  • Both Hands Cupped Together:  Placing both hands in front of your body and cupping them together means you want to return to the boat.
  • Single Hand Moving Horizontally Across Throat: Placing a single hand and moving horizontally across your throat means you are out of gas or running out of gas.

Dive Slate

Another way to communicate when diving is to use a dive slate. Consisting of an erasable board or waterproof paper, you can use a dive slate to write messages. Whether you want to convey information to your buddy or ask him or her question, you can use a dive slate. Just write your message on the dive slate and point it in his or her direction.

You can’t use just any pen and paper to communicate when diving. Unless it’s waterproof, your messages won’t appear on the board or paper. Dive slates solve this problem by featuring a completely waterproof design. They are typically made of PVC or plastic and feature a waterproof erasable marker or pencil. Some dive slates even use glow-in-the-dark markers or pencils, allowing you to produce easy-to-see messages.

The only disadvantage to using a dive slate is that it requires you to haul additional equipment. If the dive slate isn’t secured to your suit, it may fall off. But if you’re looking for a quick and easy way to communicate when diving, you can’t go wrong with a dive slate. Just remember to keep it secure at all times. Depending on where you are diving, you may lose your dive slate forever if it falls off.

Lights

While not as effective as hand signals or a dive slate, lights can also be used to communicate when diving. A dive light is a special type of handheld flashlight that’s designed to illuminate your surrounding environment when diving. If you’re diving at night, you can use a dive light to increase your visibility. But dive lights are also an effective means of underwater communication.

Some of the most common light signals include the following:

  • Drawing a Circle on the Ocean Floor: Moving your light in a circular manner on the ocean floor means you are safe or okay.
  • Moving Light Up and Down: Quickly raising and lowering the light means danger ahead.
  • Moving Light Side to Side: Moving the light horizontally from side to side means you’ve encountered an emergency.

Voice System

There are voice systems available that allow divers to communicate with each other. Using a voice system, you can talk to your buddy just as you normally would when on the boat or on land. Voice systems are typically embedded in or attached to your dive mask. They consist of both a microphone and speaker. To relay a message to your buddy, you speak into the microphone. Your buddy will then hear your message through the speaker attached to his or her dive mask.

An example of a voice system used in diving is the Lagosease. Developed by Casio, it works within visible range. In other words, if you see your buddy, you can speak to him or her and vise versa. But if your buddy is too far away to see, you won’t be able to communicate with him or her using Casio.

The downside to using a voice system like Casio is that it requires you to keep the regulator in your mouth. As a result, you may struggle to speak clearly. With practice, though, you can learn to speak more clearly so that your buddy can understand what you are saying.

Rope Tugs

You can’t communicate with other divers using rope tugs, but you can use this method to communicate the boat operator or tender. If the tender pulls on the rope once, he or she is asking if you are okay. If you pull on the rope once, you are signaling to the tender that you are okay.

If the tender pulls on the rope twice, he or she is telling you to stay where you are. If you pull on the rope twice, you are signaling to the tender that you are stationary.

Want to create your own custom dive logs? Contact us today to learn more about our custom dive logs.

/by

How to Extend Your Bottom Time When Diving

How long do you stay underwater during a typical dive? Regardless of where you are diving, you’ll probably want to spend a decent amount of time exploring the aquatic environment. From fish and octopuses to coral reefs and sunken man-made structures, there’s a whole new world waiting for you below the surface. To fully explore it, though, you’ll need to extend your bottom time.

What Is Bottom Time?

Recorded in most dive logs, bottom time refers to the total length of time a diver stays underwater. The Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) defines the term “bottom time” as being the total elapsed time from descent to ascent. To calculate your bottom time, you count the minutes and seconds that you stay underwater, beginning from when you splash into the water and ending when you return to the surface.

You can’t stay underwater forever when diving. Scuba tanks can only hold so much gas. If you consume it too quickly, you’ll have to resurface sooner. Furthermore, there are no-decompression limits (NDLs) with which you must adhere. Not to be confused with bottom time, an NDL is the maximum amount of time you can safely stay underwater at a specified depth without stopping periodically during the ascent to expel gases from your body’s tissue and protect against decompression sickness.

The good news is that you can extend your bottom time by following a few simple tips. If you’re tired of having your dives cut short because of lack of air or NDLs, consider the following tips to extend your bottom time.

Breathe Slowly and Deeply

The way in which you breathe while diving will affect your bottom time. Breathing slowly and deeply, for example, allows you to conserve more gas than breathing fast and shallow. If you breathe shallow, you’ll waste a significant amount of gas. Breathing shallow means that a lot of the gas, or specifically the oxygen within the gas mixture, will only reach the back of your throat. It won’t reach deep inside your lungs where it’s absorbed into your bloodstream. In turn, you’ll have to take more breaths to sustain your body’s oxygen needs.

Breathing too fast contributes to a shorter maximum bottom time by expending a greater amount of energy. Each breath you take requires energy from your body. Granted, the human body receives energy from food, primarily in the form of calories. But it still needs oxygen to use this stored energy. The cells within our bodies use oxygen to get energy. As a result, breathing too fast while diving will force you to consume more gas. If you’re trying to extend your bottom time, focus on breathing slowly and deeply.

Dive at a Shallow Depth

The depth at which you dive will also affect your bottom time. Going back to the basics of diving physics, depth affects air pressure. The deeper you dive, the greater the pressure of the gas you inhale. If you turn an empty bottle upside down and push it underwater, the air bubble inside the bottle will become smaller during the bottle’s descent. This is because the pressure of the water squishes or compresses the air bubble. Well, this same concept holds true for the gas in scuba tanks. As you descend, the gas in your tank compresses, meaning you’ll consume more gas with each breath.

How much of a difference in bottom time can diving at a shallow depth really make? Pressure increases at a rate of one atmosphere (ATM) for every 33 feet (10 meters) that you descend. At a depth of 33 feet, you will consume twice the amount of gas that you would at the surface. At a depth of 66 feet, you will consume three times the amount of gas that you would at the surface. With each breath consuming more gas, your scuba tank won’t last long at deep depths.

Use a Buoyancy Control Device

Another way to extend your bottom time is to use a buoyancy control device (BCD). Also known as a buoyancy compensator, this wearable device is designed to stabilize and control your body while underwater. There are different types of BCDs, though most models feature a hollow bladder that you can inflate or deflate. If you find yourself sinking, you can inflate it with additional gas. If you find yourself naturally floating towards the surface, you can deflate some of the gas from your BCD’s bladder.

Aside from buoyancy control, using a BCD can extend your bottom time by conserving your body’s energy. Without a BCD — or with the wrong type of BCD — you’ll spend an excessive amount of energy to prevent yourself from naturally floating or sinking. Each kick or hand movement consumes energy, and the more energy you spend, the more gas you’ll have to breathe. Using the right BCD helps you converse energy so that you can stay underwater for a longer length of time.

Invest in High-Quality Fins

Don’t underestimate the importance of wearing high-quality fins. Beginners often assume that all fins are the same, so they choose the cheapest pair without paying attention to quality. But not all fins offer the same level of performance, and if you choose low-quality fins, you’ll spend more energy kicking.

Switch to Nitrox

Switching from traditional gas to nitrox may increase your bottom time. As explained by Scuba Diving Magazine, nitrox allows for longer NDLs by providing a higher ratio of oxygen-to-nitrogen than conventional gas. Conventional breathing gas consists of about 21% oxygen and 79% nitrogen. Nitrox, however, contains a higher concentration of oxygen and a lower concentration of nitrogen. By switching from conventional gas to nitrox, your body will absorb less nitrogen when diving, allowing for a longer NDL as well as a longer bottom time.

At a depth of 105 feet while using nitrox consisting of 36% nitrogen, you’ll have twice the NDL as you would using conventional gas. Along with the other tips described here, this is one more way to extend your bottom time.

Consider Wearing Two Tanks

You can extend your maximum bottom time by wearing two gas tanks rather than one. Known as twin tank diving, it can double your bottom time at shallow depths where NDL isn’t a concern. With two tanks, you’ll have the freedom to explore the dive site for longer. Additionally, the second tank acts as a failsafe. If the first tank fails, you can switch your breathing supply to the second tank, which is particularly important during deep dives.

Look for Leaks

Whether you use one gas tank or two, you should inspect your equipment for leaks. It’s not uncommon for seals or gas lines to leak. Even if it’s a small leak, it will still reduce the amount of time you can stay underwater when diving. Therefore, you should get into the habit of inspecting of your equipment for leaks on a regular basis. A worn O-ring, for example, may allow gas to leak at the tank’s valve joint. If you discover gas leaking from an O-ring — or anywhere else on your equipment — replace the faulty component before your next dive. Otherwise, you can expect a shorter maximum bottom time.

Want to create your own custom dive logs? Contact us today to learn more about our custom dive logs.

/by