You’ll be ready to rescue someone in an emergency, but you’ll also have the skills and awareness to prevent problems. For many, earning a Rescue Diver certification is the start of a career in diving.

Sometimes you need to travel to try different types of diving. Taking a scuba diving trip is a great way explore different environments and it allows you to take Specialty Diver courses that may not be available in your local area. Ask us about travel opportunities combined with diver education.

Also, check out where other divers are diving and view their adventures on ScubaEarth®.

And, if you aren’t already a Diving Society member, you need to be. Members receive Sport Diver magazine, scuba gear rebates, exclusive travel specials and the ability to attend local Society events. It’s all about adventure and the dive lifestyle.

Who should take this course?

Scuba divers describe the Rescue Diver course as the most challenging, yet most rewarding course they’ve ever taken. Why? Because you learn to prevent and manage problems in the water, and become more confident in your skills as a diver, knowing that you can help others if needed. During the course, you learn to become a better buddy by practicing problem solving skills until they become second nature. Plus, the course is just fun – it’s serious, but still allows for lots of laughter in between the focused learning.

(Junior) Adventure Divers who are at least 12 years old and have completed the Underwater Navigation Adventure Dive may enroll in a Rescue Diver course. You also need to have Emergency First Response Primary and Secondary Care (CPR and First Aid) training within the past 24 months. You can complete this training during the Rescue Diver course. Your instructor may also offer the Emergency Oxygen Provider specialty diver course at the same time.

What will you learn?

The Rescue Diver course prepares you to deal with dive emergencies, minor and major, using a variety of techniques. Through knowledge development and rescue exercises, you learn what to look for and how to respond. During rescue scenarios, you put into practice your knowledge and skills. Topics include:

• Self rescue
• Recognizing and managing stress in other divers
• Emergency management and equipment
• Rescuing panicked divers
• Rescuing unresponsive divers

You may be able to get college credit for the Rescue Diver course – ask your instructor.

What scuba gear will you use?

You’ll use your basic scuba equipment and will need a pocket mask to practice in-water resuscitation. During exercises, you’ll work with an oxygen unit, floats, marker buoys and perhaps CPR mannequins. Your Instructor will explain the equipment that you need and may suggest additional gear, such as your own first aid kit, which will be useful throughout your diving career.