Chapter 3 Using the Scuba Equipment

Assembling the Scuba Unit

Donning the Scuba Unit

Pre-Entry Diver Check

Using the Mask

Using the Second Stage Regulator

Using the Weight System

Exits Disassembly and

Maintenance

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Objectives Demonstrate the proper assembly of the scuba unit. Demonstrate the proper donning of the scuba unit. Define a pre-dive entry checklist. Demonstrate the proper usage of the dive mask,

second stage regulator and weight system. Discuss safe entries and exits. Demonstrate the disassembly of the scuba unit.

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Assembling the Scuba Unit

Hands on Assembly

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Assembling the Scuba Unit

Tank Position Attach BCD to Tank Check the Regulator

and Attach to Tank Attach Low Pressure

Inflator Hose Pressurize System

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Putting on the Scuba Unit

Sitting Position Standing Position In the Water

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Pre-Entry Checklist

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Using the Mask

Mask Clearing Equalizing Pressures

Mask Ears Sinus

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Second Stage Regulator

Breathing“Never Hold Your Breath” Clearing the

Regulator Retrieving the

Regulator Snorkel vs

Regulator

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Buoyancy Control Device

Adjusting Buoyancy Buoyancy Check

Descending Ascending Surface Usage

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Weight Systems

Removal “Texas Quick

Draw”

ReplacementSurfaceDepth

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Shore Entries and Exits

Gradually shuffle backwards with fins on until able to swim.

Follow bottom contour on exit crawling if need be till you can safely stand.

Keep mask on in order to see and snorkel or regulator in place to breathe.

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Boat Entries and Exits

When using the ladder to enter or exit wait until the boat dips into the wave trough.

Remove weight belt and fins. This will keep you positively buoyant.

Keep mask on in order to see and snorkel or regulator in place to breathe.

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Disassembling the Scuba Unit Shut off tank and bleed

off pressure Unhook power inflator Remove regulator yoke Reinstall a clean and dry

dust cap Remove, invert and

empty BCD Lay tank down

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Discussion Questions/Review Describe the steps in

assembling the scuba unit.

Discuss the positions and describe the methods used for donning the scuba unit.

Name the items on a pre-dive entry check list.

Describe the steps in clearing the mask.

Name and describe the two methods of regulator retrieval and clearing.

Describe the function of the BCD while descending, ascending and at the surface.

Describe and name the method for “ditching” the weight belt.

Describe the steps in disassembling the scuba unit.

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Summary

The more familiar you become with assembling your gear, its function, and proper technique for its use, the more comfortable and effective you will become as a public safety diver. The underwater environment demands a certain respect that can only be accomplished by mastering your gear and the proper ways in which to use it.

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