When diving in an area with currents like Nusa Penida, this is the situation no one wants to be in: surface after a lovely drift dive, but the boat is nowhere to be seen! While this is a VERY rare occurrence when diving with the right crew and operator, there are some precautions you can take to avoid this situation, as well as some safety equipment to use.
To avoid being left behind:
Plan the dive, dive the plan: Make sure to attend the dive briefing, pay attention to compass bearings, depths, and significant landmarks, be aware of any areas that have strong currents, and know the expected run time for the dive. Additionally, know how and where you will be entering and exiting the water.
Stick to said plan: if a maximum dive time is given, respect it. If there are specific SMB's procedures, use them.
If you do find yourself alone at the surface with no boat in sight:
Stay calm and signal for help: Use the visual devices and noise-making devices you brought with you to signal for help.
Swim to safety: If possible, swim to a safe location, such as a shore or a nearby boat.
Keep a positive attitude: Remember that the boat will likely come back for you. Remain calm and stay positive.
It's important to remember that becoming separated from the dive boat is a rare occurrence. Dive equipment plays a crucial role in ensuring a diver's safety, especially in the event of separation from the dive boat.
Safety equipment for boat diving:
Delayed Surface Marker Buoys (DSMBs) or Surface Marker Buoys (SMBs): These are also known as "safety sausages" and are essential for signalling the dive boat of your location on the surface.
Signal mirrors: These can be used to reflect light and catch the eye of passing boats or air traffic in an emergency.
Lights: A strobe light attached to your equipment can help the dive boat locate you at the surface in low visibility or at night. Additionally, a torch can be used for signalling the boat or for shining into crevices.
Noise-making devices: A whistle attached to your BC can be used to attract attention and can carry further than the human voice.
Modern technology: GPS trackers, such as the Nautilus Lifeline, can provide a layer of security by allowing the dive boat to track your location.
It's important to note that some of the listed equipment may not be necessary for every dive, and that divers should take into consideration the specific dive location, conditions, and dive planning. It's always a good idea to check with the dive leader or dive operator on what would be considered appropriate equipment for that specific dive.
The dive operator is also of course in charge of your safety. Boat diving implies to have safety equipment on board such as marine radio and first aid, as well as a good crew to watch out for you!
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