Scuba & Snorkeling

Ross Boyer, scuba diver, ex Major in the Army Reserve and former Advisor to Venture Crew 246 gave us the following do's and don'ts for scuba diving, he has 32 years experience and knows what he is talking about. For a useful guide to the language of divers see our communication guide. There are more guidelines and requirements on the snorkeling application form. Other information may be found in the links further down the page. Remember to plan properly, prepare carefully and dive safely.

    1.  Don't snorkel or dive with a cold.

    2.  If you can't "clear" your ears, you can't dive. Period.

    3.  Buddy system, never snorkel or dive alone. Dive alone, die alone!

    4.  If your ears hurt, surface.

    5.  No alcohol or drugs within 24 hours of diving.

    6.  No soda within 4 hours of diving.

    7.  No "super caffeine" drinks within 24 hours of diving.

    8.  No Mexican or other spicy foods prior to a dive.

A few links of interest...

http://www.usssp.org/advance/boyscout/snorkeling.html

http://www.usssp.org/advance/boyscout/scuba.html

http://www.scouting.org/pubs/19-176.pdf Covers snorkeling safety for Boy Scouts