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Pre-Dive Routines for Safer Dives

Most problems are easiest to prevent before you leave the surface. Standard pre-dive routines keep you from guessing, skipping steps, or relying on memory when you are distracted or rushed.

Two divers checking gear at the back of their van
Stage 1

Pre-Dive Checks

Turn gear checks into a standard habit so you are not relying on memory or rushed last minute inspections at the edge of the water.
Divers on a boat doing a long hose check
Stage 2

GUE EDGE Dive Planning

Walk through the GUE EDGE framework and see how a simple, repeatable structure makes dives more predictable for you and your buddy or team.
Very bad bubbles coming from a diver
Stage 3

Do a Bubble Check

Every dive should include a bubble check as part of your pre-dive routine. A bubble check is your last chance to spot gear failures before a dive.

Keep building your dive knowledge with these next steps:

Setting Up Gear

Consistently setting up your gear the same way reduces mistakes and stress. Learn a practical sequence for tanks, regulators, BCD, and checks.

A Repeatable Process

Recreational Gas Planning

You do not need complex math to plan gas for recreational dives. Learn a practical approach that keeps you honest and safe.

Improve Your Planning

Building A Routine

Pre-dive checks catch problems before you get in the water. Learn a simple repeatable process that covers gear, gas, and team readiness.

Pre-Dive Checks
Written by Tyler Allison • Last updated March 22, 2026

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