Emergency Preparedness for Recreational Divers
Learn how to handle the surface side of dive safety: check-ins, briefings, gear prep, and what to do when things go wrong.
Even if you’re not a dive pro, you still have a role in managing emergencies. This section teaches you what to expect from instructors, charters, and teammates—and how to step up when no one else does. It’s not about running rescues. It’s about being ready, calm, and useful when someone needs help.
Emergency Preparedness Topics
Essential Surface Support Gear for Divers
From radios and signal mirrors to slates and spare tanks, this page covers the gear that stays on land or on the boat—but becomes critical when the dive doesn’t go to plan. Includes what I personally carry and why.
Essential Medical Supplies for Divers
What goes in a dive-focused first aid kit? This guide outlines key medical supplies recommended by DAN and how I’ve structured my own kits for both local and travel diving.
Emergency Action Plans (EAPs)
Learn who should create an Emergency Action Plan, when it’s reasonable to ask for one, and what a basic EAP should include. Even informal buddy dives benefit from a one-page plan that outlines roles, contacts, and what to do if something goes wrong.
Pre-Dive Emergency Briefings
Emergency briefings don’t have to be formal—but they should be done. This page explains how to quickly confirm roles, gear, and contingency plans using the UNITED-C model (or any checklist that fits your team).
Pre-Dive Check-In Systems
Learn what dive operators should track—and what to do when you’re diving with friends at a quarry or shore site. Includes examples of check-in habits, what info to share, and how to create passive safety systems like emergency texts.
Surface Emergency Redundancy
Surface kits should include more than first aid. This page covers gear spares, surface-only cutting tools, thermal protection, and how new divers can contribute to team safety without spending a fortune.
Managing Cold, Heat & Dehydration
Environmental stress increases the risk of poor decisions, injuries, and decompression sickness. Learn how to recognize early signs of heat exhaustion, mild hypothermia, and dehydration—and how to respond before it escalates.
Post-Incident Debriefing & Reporting
Debriefing helps divers learn from real incidents—and from small breakdowns before they become serious. This page introduces the DEBRiEF model, plus tips for starting honest conversations without judgment or blame.