At Big Blue, a common query from both our certified divers and those returning to diving after a hiatus is: Exactly what is a Scuba Review? Also referred to as a ‘scuba tune-up’, ‘skills refresh dive’, or ‘scuba refresher’, this is a critical exercise for several reasons, as we’ll explore in this discussion.
Scuba diving, being a unique activity, poses safety concerns not primarily due to a diver’s lack of ability or knowledge but often stems from their psychological state underwater. Minor issues can escalate into full-blown panic situations for out-of-practice divers, posing risks not just to themselves but also to their dive partners and instructors. Triggers for panic can be as trivial as ill-fitting equipment or water in the mask.
Recognizing this, both PADI and SSI recommend a refresher dive for divers inactive for more than six months. During this session, participants revisit essential skills forgotten during the hiatus, covering underwater buoyancy, safety protocols, and equipment handling. While it’s a broad assumption to say everyone inactive for over six months needs a refresher, experienced divers are encouraged to consider it after a year away from diving.
The question arises: Do I really need a refresher? While your diving certification lasts a lifetime, prolonged inactivity can diminish your skills, making a refresher dive a wise choice. It provides a gradual return to diving, ensuring competency and safety underwater.
Aside from personal benefits, a refresher dive ensures the safety and enjoyment of the entire diving group. Diving with someone knowledgeable about handling unexpected situations and maintaining proper diving etiquette enhances the overall experience for all involved.
So, what does a refresher entail? Initially, there’s a brief theoretical review covering various scenarios and safety measures. This helps gauge participants’ preparedness. Subsequently, participants assemble and check their equipment before receiving a dive briefing, which includes dive site details and underwater communication signals.
Once geared up and having conducted buddy checks, participants enter the water using the ‘giant stride’ technique. Skills practice typically begins in shallow waters, focusing on mask and regulator handling. This is followed by the diving segment, gradually descending to around 10 meters to practice buoyancy control and movement techniques.
As the dive nears its end, participants ascend safely, signaling their return to the surface. Post-dive discussions cover any issues encountered and potential improvements for future dives, concluding with equipment maintenance and a celebratory acknowledgment of a successful refresher.
In essence, a Scuba Refresher serves as a vital step in ensuring both personal safety and the enjoyment of diving experiences for all involved.
