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Diving Hazards
by Zak Breezer
http://www.bsdiving.com
People with a hunger for excitement are often taking on one
adventure or other. Be it rock climbing or shooting down
the rapids in a canoe along some river, they constantly
seek out physically demanding activities and even danger.
Most of the potential dangers may be averted through
adequate preparation and training.
One of the most tempting and dangerous challenges attempted
by the adventurous at heart is underwater diving with scuba
diving and snorkeling being the two options to choose from
for this activity. Both require specialized equipment and
training. Scuba diving allows expert swimmers to explore
the depths of the sea with a wet suit and oxygen tank.
Snorkeling is an activity for great swimmers which allows
them the freedom to explore shallower areas such as reefs.
Caution is necessary in both cases.
The sudden loss of oxygen is probably the biggest threat.
Should the diver's tank suddenly lose pressure, get
damaged, or even become lost, they must immediately surface
or risk drowning. It is also possible for a snorkeler to
be suddenly cut off from their oxygen supply and
necessesitate a mad dash to the boat or shore. It is
essential for the diver to check the tank prior to going
underwater to see that it is functioning properly and then
to keep tabs on it while diving. A simple kink in the line
could spell disaster when down below.
Another possible complication for deep-sea divers is
getting the bends. This is when the person submerges or
surfaces too quickly, moving through several feet of water
at a rapid pace. High levels of oxygen can enter the
bloodstream and create problems for the circulatory system.
If not treated promptly, the situation can become life
threatening. Always take a partner and preferably have
someone manning the boat while you are underwater, so in
case of emergency, you can get immediate aid.
Great Whites and other sharks are considered by many divers
to be the greatest danger, both mental and physical. Great
Whites can reach lengths exceeding 20 feet. They have
shown a propensity to attack, dismember, and even kill
people. Clearly, it is a good idea to give these animals
as much space as they need so check before heading out and
avoid all known feeding grounds. The stings of both eels
and jellyfish are also known to be dangers best avoided
when diving.
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