Scuba diving is one of the most popular water sports in the world and thanks to India’s long coastline, we have many scuba diving destinations in the country. Be it the colorful coral reefs in Andaman or the ones in Pondicherry or Goa, there are many popular diving sites in India itself. However, scuba diving requires some expertise and you will have to follow some guidelines before you dive underwater. We list some essential tips that one needs to keep in mind before they go scuba diving in India.
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Consult your doctor before you go scuba diving
Scuba diving is not doubt an exciting new sport to learn and expereicne but before you decide to go underwater, you need to make sure that your body is capable of this activity. Visit your doctor for a consultation and ask him to run any necessary tests if required to check your fitness levels. Tell them specifically about you wanting to go scuba diving and once you get an all-clear from them you can learn the sport without a worry.
Learn from a certified instructor/school
It is highly important that you choose an instructor or diving school that is certified as that means they are good enough to teach this sport. Look for PADI certification as that is the certifying body. Even if they do, choose someone experienced as you will want to be in the best of hands when underwater. Take notes if required and practise the underwater signs to make sure you know them well before the dive.
Ask questions
When you are training for the dive, you may have several questions in your mind that may range from being important to silly. But it is vital that you clear all your doubts and ask whatever you have in mind before you actually go underwater. Until all your questions are answered, do not go ahead. Remember, it is difficult to communicate underwater.
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Check your scuba diving gear
Unless you are planning to take up scuba diving regularly, you are likely to hire the gear from a school. But make sure you check it thoroughly as many others may have used it in the past and there could be a chance of some wear and tear. You should not hire anything that is damaged as it can cause problems underwater.
Go slow and keep yourself relaxed
Going underwater for the first time with all the gear can be daunting for many and it is important that you remember what you have learnt. You will be escorted by a trained professional but even so, make sure you don’t panic. If you have any difficulties, communicate it to your instructor. There might be other divers who are better than you but don’t try to outdo them. Keep it slow and enjoy the experience. Keeping a cool, relaxed mind will help.
Do not touch anything underwater
The beautiful corals in the sea will be tempting enough to touch but remember, you should not touch anything underwater unless your instructor says otherwise. The reefs may be attractive to look at but can be poisonous. Another thing is you could accidentally harm them in the process.
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Find out about any mishaps
It can be tricky to ask your diving school about any accidents or mishaps that have happened in the past and get a true answer but do a little digging to be safe than sorry. Maybe the local media covered it or the regular beach goers have something to tell you. This is not to make you panic but to be extra safe when you go underwater. Afterall, mother nature can be kind and brutal.
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