Underwater Diving
Before considering skin diving as a sport, you must be healthy. Persons with disorders such as epilepsy, diabetes, claustrophobia, and respiratory and cardiac disorders must never skindive. It is sensible to have regular medical checkups if you intend to take up the sport seriously.
Skin diving is not a sport you can learn casually. Even an experienced diver should not attempt to teach you if he or she is not a qualified instructor. You must have lessons before you buy the equipment or attempt to go underwater. The best training can be obtained at a reputable diving club or school.
Always dive with a companion. Even the most experienced divers can get into trouble underwater.
Plan your trip carefully before you set out. Diving tables are available that tell you how much time you can spend at specific depths and how much time you need to resurface. You must wear an accurate timer and depth gauge.
Check the weather forecast for the area in which you are diving before going out. Always tell a responsible person where you are going to dive and how long you expect to be away. Report back to that person when you return.
Do not dive near buoys or fishing spots. If possible, check with the local fishermen to determine which areas are safe and convenient for diving. Avoid fishing nets, buoys, and rocks that are covered with kelp.
Always fly a diving flag when diving, and always use a surface marker buoy as well.
