News
Beware of Backsliding
Earlier this year I was invited to deliver lectures at the Oztek and ADEX shows in Sydney and Singapore respectively. One of these was on “What Makes a Good Technical Diver” and I based my talk on the Scuba Confidential chapters “To the Extreme” and “Accident Analysis.” Because my audience, particularly at Oztek, was very experienced, I found myself extrapolating on some of the themes in the book. One of the topics I touched on that received a very positive response was the danger of new generations of divers not learning from their predecessors and consequently risking accidents that were entirely avoidable. I called this tendency “backsliding” and gave a few examples to explain what I meant.
Recently I was approached by a pair of technical divers and asked for advice on an incident that had befallen them on a wreck dive. One had experienced what seemed to be have been an oxygen toxicity hit and had needed to be rescued by the other, who had blown off deco to bring him up after he had convulsed and lost his regulator at 6m (20ft.) I asked for the details of the dive and they told me the wreck was on sand at 50m (165ft), they had been diving on air and carrying deco stages of 50% and O2. They had done a little less than 30 minutes on the wreck and on ascent had switched to EAN 50 at 20m and O2 at 6m. After only a couple of minutes at 6m the diver convulsed. Both survived the dive without any residual issues apart from a crisis of confidence.
I first asked if they were sure they were really at 6m when the convulsion occurred and they assured me they were. I told them that there was no history of a diver having had an oxygen toxicity event after such a short time on a PO2 of 1.6 in very shallow water. Therefore, the most likely cause of the incident was that the diver who had convulsed had made a mistake and switched to his O2 at 20m rather than his 50%. The diver said he was sure this wasn’t the case and recounted a whole list of things he had done that made this impossible. However, he admitted he had been up late mixing gas the previous night and had only had a couple of hours sleep as he needed to wake before dawn to drive to the dive site.
The Main Point
I leave it up to you to draw your own conclusions but to my mind the debate over whether the diver had got his cylinders mixed up or not is just a side issue here. The main point is that it was completely unnecessary for these divers to have been carrying two deco gasses in the first place. Either, EAN 50 or the O2 would have done the job just fine and having one gas would have had hardly any effect on the length of time they spent on ascent. They were in calm 30-degree water in the middle of the day after all: a few minutes extra on their hang were hardly going to be a safety issue.
In the early days of technical diving, breathing the wrong gas at the wrong depth was a common problem. Some divers survived; many did not. Labelling and other conventions were established to reduce the chance of this happening. However, human error being what it is, we figured at the time that the best way to make sure you do not switch to the wrong deco cylinder at depth is only to carry one. Except of course when time and safety requirements absolutely insisted that you carry more than one deco gas; for instance if your bottom gas was a hypoxic, helium rich mix.
Back to the Age of Ignorance
This is what I mean by backsliding: a return to practices and procedures that were rejected in the early days of technical diving as being likely to lead to accidents: a step backwards in the evolutionary process either through poor training and ignorance or because divers think somehow that they are too experienced to make mistakes.
Originally, the rise of technical diving coincided with the development of the Internet. Most technical divers happened to be early adopters of the new technology (we are all just geeks deep down!) and this meant that the technical community, though widespread geographically, was closely linked online. So news travelled fast! Especially bad news! Whenever a technical diving death took place, we would pore over the details, not out of morbid curiosity but to see if there were any lessons we could learn or if anything about the accident indicated that commonly adopted procedures might be flawed. When a flaw WAS found, things moved quickly, word passed around, training standards were amended and equipment was modified. This is how our sport developed.
New Ways or Old Ways?
As time passes and new generations of divers embrace technical diving I feel there is a danger that the incidents and accidents that led us to make changes in procedures in the past will be forgotten. Unless newer divers are told why we do things the way we do, there is always the likelihood that they may experiment with new ways that are really just the old ways – old ways that were found to be inherently dangerous so were rejected and replaced by safer ways.
You may think that I am making too much of a relatively minor incident. Unfortunately, divers do not usually tell anyone about their close calls, so this story actually gives us a rare insight that, I believe, is worth dwelling on and sharing. I remember thinking at the time, “I can’t believe that with all we have learned, with all the time that’s been spent over the years trying to improve safety in technical diving, that someone can still manage to get an O2 hit on a short 50m air dive! Where have we gone wrong? How come this sort of thing is still possible?”
More Backsliding
Others examples of backsliding I have seen over the last twelve months or so include: –
- Failing to make a dive plan for a technical dive and letting your dive computer vaguely plan the dive as you go, as per regular no decompression stop sport diving!
- Carrying independent back mounted doubles, one cylinder containing your bottom gas, the other cylinder filled with your deco gas! I don’t know how anyone could think that this is a fresh idea, yet it seems to crop up in different places from time to time as a new generation gets bored of carrying stage cylinders and looks for a lazy way out, not thinking that maybe the lazy divers of previous generations have already passed this way. This is a really easy way of breathing the wrong gas at the wrong depth, as many have found to their cost. It also, of course, completely takes away your bottom gas redundancy.
- Planning overhead environment dives using the rule of thirds but with only a single cylinder and K valve – again with no protection against an air supply failure and showing a complete misunderstanding of the gas rules.
- Diving a NITROX mix trusting the dive operator’s analysis and not checking the mix yourself. This one is becoming pretty much universal, especially on liveaboards.
I recognise that whenever I preach the virtues of past practices I risk coming across as an old fart bemoaning the folly of young people of today and insisting that “back in the day” we knew better. Nothing could be further from the truth. Progress is essential: we are nowhere near a perfect world as far as diving safety is concerned. The fact that every year we lose another friend or two to this sport is ample evidence of that.
Of course, a good technical diver does not remain so entrenched in the ideas of the past that he blinds himself to the opportunities of the future. But repeating the mistakes of the past is not the way forward.
Ho Ho Ho! Vobster Quay’s recording-breaking charity Santa diving event returns on Sunday 15th December 2024 for another round of festive fundraising frivolities. Run in aid of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) and Help For Heroes, this ever-popular annual fundraising event aims to raise sack-loads of cash for these two very deserving charities.
Divers of all levels are invited to grab their Santa outfits – and as much festive cheer as they can muster – and head down to Vobster Quay near Mells, Somerset for a mass sponsored Santa dive in aid of charity. In previous years, the event has attracted divers from the far corners of the UK to join in the festive merriment for a final festive dive before the Christmas and New Year break. Back in 2015, the event smashed the world record for the most Santa divers with 188 divers taking to the waters donning their festive finery – a record that remains unbeaten to this day!
Vobster Santas isn’t just about setting records – it’s also about raising some serious cash for charity. Vobster Quay encourages all divers to get into the spirit of the season to raise much-needed funds for two very deserving charities – the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) and Help For Heroes.
Through individual sponsorship and online donations, divers can invite their friends, family and work colleagues to sponsor them to plunge into the balmy waters of Vobster Quay dressed in full festive finery. Since the very first Santa dive in 2007, the event has raised over £52,000 for charity. “It’s been over 17 years since the very first charity Santa dive took place at Vobster Quay and every year the event just keeps getting bigger and better” enthused Vobster Quay owner, Amy Stanton.
“Vobster Santas is a great way for divers to say a massive thank you to the both the RNLI and Help For Heroes – two very deserving charities close to our hearts. We’re immensely proud of all that Vobster Santas has achieved and hope that even more divers will join this year’s event on Sunday 15th December. I’m confident that we can make Vobster Santas 2024 the biggest yet!”.
Divers wishing to participate can get involved by simply registering their attendance at
www.vobster.com/event-vobstersantas.php.
Blogs
Dive into Adventure at Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa: The Ultimate Diving Destination in the Maldives
Tucked away in the remote northern Haa Alifu Atoll, Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa is a premier destination for anyone seeking an unforgettable underwater experience. With over 30 dive sites to explore, divers of all levels can witness the unique and mesmerising beauty of the underwater world. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or new to the sport, Hideaway offers an exceptional diving adventure that is not to be missed.
Explore the Beauty Beneath the Surface
Hideaway is perfectly situated near some of the most spectacular dive sites in the Maldives. The dive school and team at Hideaway offer a very personalised experience to ensure each diver gets an interactive, immersive experience.
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Unique dive spots such as Theefaridhoo Thila (Heaven and Hell) as one of the 50 best dive sites in the whole of the Maldives, known for its beautiful soft coral gardens.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
As the resort is located next to a channel which gives guests surprise visits from eagle rays, manta rays, guitar sharks and more.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
One of the standout features of diving in the Haa Alifu Atoll is the abundance of rare and exotic marine species. The area is known for sightings of whale sharks, manta rays, turtles, and a variety of colorful reef fish. Diving at Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa offers a rare opportunity to encounter these creatures in their natural habitat, creating lifelong memories for guests.
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Whether you’re exploring deep coral gardens, dramatic overhangs, or vibrant reef walls, each dive offers something new and exciting. The visibility in the Maldives is exceptional, often exceeding 30 meters, making it ideal for both underwater photography and general exploration.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Diving for All Levels
At Hideaway, we believe that everyone should have the opportunity to experience the thrill of diving. That’s why we cater to divers of all levels, from beginners to experienced professionals. Our professional dive center, led by expert instructors, offers a range of courses and guided dives. If you’re new to diving, you can start with an introductory course that will teach you the basics of scuba diving in a safe and controlled environment.
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For more experienced divers, we offer advanced dive courses and guided excursions to some of the more challenging dive sites. Our instructors are knowledgeable and passionate about the local marine life, ensuring that every dive is not only safe but also informative and enjoyable.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Exclusive Diving Offer
To make your stay even more unforgettable, Hideaway is offering an exclusive diving package designed to enhance your experience both above and below the water. When you book a minimum 7-night stay, you’ll receive:
- 35% discount on room rates.
- Complimentary diving: 3 dives per person for 2 guests, allowing you to experience the beauty of the Maldives underwater world.
- Free meal plan upgrade: enjoy a complimentary upgrade from Bed & Breakfast to Half Board, or from Half Board to Full Board. Guests who prefer the White Platinum Plan (WPP) can avail it at a discounted rate.
This incredible offer provides the perfect opportunity to experience world-class diving while enjoying all the luxury and comfort that Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa is known for.
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Combinable Offers for Even More Value
This diving offer can also be combined with our Anniversary and Honeymoon offers, allowing you to create the perfect celebration package. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or simply seeking a romantic getaway, this offer ensures that you can enjoy the best of both worlds – luxurious accommodations and unforgettable diving adventures.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Terms & Conditions
- This offer is available exclusively for bookings made through the official Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa website using a specific booking code.
- The offer cannot be combined with other promotions available on the website or through other channels, nor can it be redeemed for cash.
- All dives are subject to weather conditions, ensuring the safety and enjoyment of all guests.
- Black-out dates: This offer is not available from 24th December 2024 to 9th January 2025.
To book this exquisite offer, use the Promo Code: SCUBA24FD
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Hideaway is not just a resort; it’s a sanctuary for those seeking peace, adventure, and luxury. With spacious villas, private pools, and world-class dining options, the resort offers everything you need for a perfect holiday. From tennis, golf, gym, cycling to the exquisite underwater activities, unique dining options, Hideaway has something for everyone. And for diving enthusiasts, it provides an unparalleled opportunity to explore some of the most beautiful dive sites in the world.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Our dive center is fully equipped with state-of-the-art gear, ensuring that every dive is safe, comfortable, and enjoyable. Our instructors are passionate about the underwater world and are eager to share their knowledge with you, whether it’s your first dive or your 100th.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
The Ultimate Dive Adventure Awaits
If you’re looking for an unforgettable diving holiday in the Maldives, look no further than Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa. With over 30 dive sites, unique marine life, and exclusive offers, we provide the ultimate underwater experience. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking adventure, our diving package offers exceptional value and incredible memories.
Book now through our official website to take advantage of this exclusive offer and prepare for the dive adventure of a lifetime.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Call: +960 650-1515
Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
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