Equipment General Concerns

Objectives State four important criteria for selection of your equipment. Identify desirable vs. undesirable features. Describe, in general terms, proper maintenance for scuba equipment. State proper inspection schedule for each item. Select appropriate gear based on #1+2 above.

Selection Criteria Quality –Doesn’t have to be the most expensive but make sure it will do the job Comfort –It takes a while to figure what comfort means when wearing scuba gear. Function –The gear must function properly and safely for scuba diving.

Selection Criteria Continued Fit –The equipment must fit you properly for scuba diving. –If the gear doesn’t fit you, it won’t do the job no matter how well it meets the other criteria. –Appropriate for Activity Environment Features (see examples in discussion) –Should be appropriate for your dive style and activities

General Maintenance Fresh water rinse and soak Store in cool dry place Special considerations –Specific to the piece of equipment

Inspection and Service Manufacturer's recommended schedule –Lifetime service contract Industry standards for specific items Prior to every dive

Advantages to owning your own gear Know it fits you Familiar with it’s operation Know it has been properly maintained and serviced More likely to have more good dives and fewer bad dive experiences

Gear Identification Mark your gear to prevent loss through confusion or theft. –Make the markings obvious so it is easy to identify your gear even in a disorganized pile of equipment. Serial numbers

Objectives State four important criteria for selection of your equipment. Identify desirable vs. undesirable features. Describe, in general terms, proper maintenance for scuba equipment. State proper inspection schedule for each item. Select appropriate gear based on #1+2 above.

Your gear can make or break an enjoyable dive, not to mention the safety issues. Don’t expect your gear to take care of you, but if you select the right gear and take care of it, you should enjoy years of trouble free diving.