A good dive starts with a good buddy
BETTER DIVING TOGETHER
A buddy is someone you plan with, communicate with and look out for.
Start with a conversation
A good buddy relationship begins before entering the water. Talk honestly about experience, recent diving, equipment and what each person wants from the dive.
If someone is unfamiliar with the site or returning after a break, that should inform the plan. A suitable dive is one that works for everyone taking part.
Agree the important details
Follow your training and the dive briefing when making the plan. Both divers should understand what is intended and what to do if circumstances change.
- The route, depth and other agreed limits.
- Gas planning and when to turn or end the dive.
- The signals you will use.
- Separation and emergency procedures.
- How to raise a concern or finish the dive.
Complete the buddy checks taught in your training and understand the relevant features of each other's equipment.
Stay a team underwater
Being buddies means maintaining awareness of one another throughout the dive. Appropriate positioning depends on conditions, but you need to be able to communicate and provide assistance.
Check in regularly, share interesting sightings and respond when your buddy signals. A camera, computer or exciting feature should not take all your attention.
Make it easy to speak up
A good buddy accepts that someone may want to change the plan or end the dive. Feeling cold, uncomfortable or simply unhappy with the situation is something to communicate.
Afterwards, take a moment to discuss how the dive went. Helpful feedback and an honest conversation can improve the next one.
The aim is a shared experience that both divers are comfortable with.
Looking for people to dive with?
Come along to a club night, meet other members and talk about your experience and diving interests.
