The Dive Otter

Basic Topics

As a new diver, I quickly encountered several concepts that piqued my curiosity after completing my open water training. When I turned to the Internet for answers, especially ScubaBoard (a mixed blessing), I found a lot of contradictory advice and overly scientific explanations. All I wanted was something simple and easy to understand.

These sections are designed for NOVICE divers who are approaching these topics for the first time. For those who consider themselves experts, I'll provide links to more in-depth resources at the top of each section.

Checklists

When to use one. Why to use one. The ones I use as examples.

Hand Signals

The basics and what you are likely to see in Chicagoland

Dive Log Options


Safety Stop / Deco

Safety Stops, No Decompression Limits, Minimum Decompression are they different? Are they the same? Which one should I be doing?

Insta-Buddy Check

One of the greatest fears of showing up for a dive without a buddy you know is the "idiot" insta-buddy. In my opinion, the traditional Buddy Check is not effective in this situation, I propose an alternative that accomplishes the same thing and is more likely to actually happen.

DIR - Doing It Right

Why does the scuba diving world think DIR is evil. Is it really? Does it have a valid point?

Rec vs Tech

How are they different? What makes them different? Do I have to go "tech" to be a great diver?

SAC and RMV and SCR

Definitions, confusion, how to calculate, how to use in practice

Nitrox

Why, where and when do we use it?

Gas Analysis & Labels


Bubble Checks

What is a "bubble check"? Should I be doing one? (hint: yes)