Scuba diving and snorkelling are attracting more and more enthusiasts, and these two water sports have one major thing in common: the safety rules, absolutely essential to guarantee trouble-free sporting fun. Let’s take a closer look at the risks inherent to the marine environment: awareness is the key to prevention!
Diving and snorkelling take you to the heart of the marine environment, which never ceases to amaze you with its incredible wealth of scenery and life forms. Bursting with life and colour, the sun’s rays seem to literally dance before your eyes... This pure source of delight is accessible to everyone, especially via snorkelling, which only requires fins, a mask and snorkel, and can be tried by anyone from age 7 to 77 and beyond! Diving requires more equipment that is trickier to master, meaning technical training and supervision are necessary. But once you know how to do it, you’re free to enjoy both sports at the weekend or on holiday, with friends or your kids. What’s more, you can practice all over the world: in freshwater or seawater, hot or cold climates!
As with any outdoor sporting activity, snorkelling and scuba diving involve certain risks. You are in a natural environment, with unpredictable weather conditions and local residents to take into consideration. And you often need to use heavy or unfamiliar equipment, with specific instructions for use.
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1) PREVENT ACCIDENTS RELATED TO MARINE LIFE
Whether diving or snorkelling, you’re bound to come into contact with some fascinating species, but don’t let your guard down!
In the underwater universe, you may be treated to some explosive encounters! Be extra careful if you come into contact with weevers, rays, scorpion fish, jellyfish and sea urchins. Some are even capable of generating electricity, like the torpedo (electric ray). As for the risk of bites, keep away from moray eels and triggerfish, and look out for lobsters, that like to pinch!~
2) PREVENT ACCIDENTS CAUSED BY THE WEATHER
Are the wind and waves looking hostile? Do not go snorkelling in these conditions. Prepare your diving equipment on the embankment, in calm, dry conditions, to avoid unnecessary haste and seasickness.
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Digital manager - padi rescue and level 1 ffessm
I'm Subea's Digital Manager. I'm passionate about spear fishing and free diving, and have been scuba diving for over fifteen years. I dive alone down to 60 meters.