What To Do When Your Divemaster Is Wrong
Have you ever noticed your divemaster breaking the rules? Divemasters and instructors make mistakes, and depending on where you’re diving, they might not follow the practices you’re used to. But how do you handle it?
GAUGE THE RISK
Oftentimes, dive-masters have a group of divers whose experience levels vary, and how they conduct the dives might be the result of factors you’re not privy to. Ask yourself if the divemaster is putting you or others at risk, or if he or she is just leading diferently than you would prefer.
SAY SOMETHING
The vast majority of divemasters truly want you to have the best dive possible, so if you disagree with part of the dive plan, speak up. Chances are the divemaster will be happy to explain his or her reasons and try to accommodate your concerns as best as possible.
KNOW YOUR LIMITS
If you’re already in the water and the dive is going awry, your first obligation is to yourself and your dive buddy. Stay within your own personal depth, time and comfort limits, and abort the dive if necessary by making a controlled ascent and signaling the boat from the surface.
REPORT TO THE CAPTAIN
In the rare event your divemaster is blatantly — and unapologetically — wrong, report the situation to the captain. Boat captains are the ultimate authorities on board, and they should prioritize the safety of their passengers above all else. If the captain can’t offer a solution, sit out the dives and find a new dive shop.
More Dive Training and Expert Advice:
5 Tips for Wreck Diving | Do You Know How To Save Air? | Quick Guide to Cavern Diving
ShutterstockDiving with a buddy is one of the safest decisions you can make as a diver.
Have you ever noticed your divemaster breaking the rules? Divemasters and instructors make mistakes, and depending on where you’re diving, they might not follow the practices you’re used to. But how do you handle it?
GAUGE THE RISK
Oftentimes, divemasters have a group of divers whose experience levels vary, and how they conduct the dives might be the result of factors you’re not privy to. Ask yourself if the divemaster is putting you or others at risk, or if he or she is just leading differently than you would prefer.
SAY SOMETHING
The vast majority of divemasters truly want you to have the best dive possible, so if you disagree with part of the dive plan, speak up. Chances are the divemaster will be happy to explain his or her reasons and try to accommodate your concerns as best as possible.
KNOW YOUR LIMITS
If you’re already in the water and the dive is going awry, your first obligation is to yourself and your dive buddy. Stay within your own personal depth, time and comfort limits, and abort the dive if necessary by making a controlled ascent and signaling the boat from the surface.
REPORT TO THE CAPTAIN
In the rare event your divemaster is blatantly — and unapologetically — wrong, report the situation to the captain. Boat captains are the ultimate authorities on board, and they should prioritize the safety of their passengers above all else. If the captain can’t offer a solution, sit out the dives and find a new dive shop.
More Dive Training and Expert Advice:
5 Tips for Wreck Diving | Do You Know How To Save Air? | Quick Guide to Cavern Diving
