Similar to all extreme activities, scuba diving too has it’s dangers and difficulties. People all around the world are interested in the mysterious paradise that is untouched by humans, hidden beneath the waves. It is good to know the dangers of this sport before you venture into the deep mysterious waters.
Although not such a safe sport a dozen years ago, today’s divers have fantastic equipment and conditions have improved greatly. These changes make for a secure and enjoyable dive but some dangers do exist so you want to be able to avoid and overcome them.
Most people think sharks are the biggest danger in the sea as divers. This assumption is not correct. These types of attacks are extremely rare, after all, when did you last hear of a scuba diver being attacked by a shark? As you dive, try not to touch walls and coral reefs as there are poisonous animals and water plants. As a new diver, it is a good idea to dive with someone experienced as they will be familiar with such things and teach you.
Decompression sickness is the most common injury that divers get. It has to do with the pressure changes in the water. The deeper you dive the more pressure you will experience. Just as you pop your ears while descending from the mountains, the same thing is done underwater. So, the speed at which you ascend and descend is of importance. If done to quickly, bubbles form in your blood. Very deep dives, over 150 feet generally, can cause nitrogen narcosis, which is compared to being drunk underwater. One minute you are fine then all of a sudden you are incapable of doing anything. You will not realize you are going deeper, you have no care about yourself or other divers. But, funny thing is, once you ascend to shallower water, it will go away, just as quickly as it came.
The beginning scuba class covers many things you will encounter and you can also educate yourself about the sea life. As long as you are a responsible diver: stay healthy, don’t drink and dive and wearing safety equipment, you will have experiences in the blue that will take your breath away.