How to Use a Snorkel

By eHow Sports & Fitness Editor

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Using a snorkel properly will give you a clear vision of what's going on under the sea without having to breathe water.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

  • Dive Masks
  • Fins
  • Snorkels And Mask

The Basics

Step1
Test your mask and snorkel together to determine fit and comfort.
Step2
Position the small rubber strap that attaches the snorkel to your mask so that the snorkel passes just above your left ear. (If you are using a special left-handed snorkel, it will be on your right.)
Step3
Take a deep breath, bite down on the mouthpiece and submerge your head in the water.
Step4
Exhale sharply once to clear any water that may be in the snorkel shaft. This is commonly called 'blasting' or 'purging.'
Step5
Inhale gently at first in case there is any residual water. Blast a second time if needed, and continue to do so whenever water enters the snorkel.
Step6
Learn to move gently on the surface'rapid or abrupt movements can fill the snorkel with water.
Step7
Inhale and hold your breath, then dive to explore the underwater environment around you.
Step8
Ascend, make sure the snorkel end is above the surface, then purge to clear the tube of water.
Step9
Breathe cautiously to be sure the snorkel has cleared completely. If you don't have enough air left to purge, lift your head above the surface and take the snorkel out to breathe.

Clearing the Snorkel of Water

Step1
Make sure you are gripping the mouthpiece of the snorkel securely with your teeth.
Step2
Exhale forcefully through your mouth. The majority of the water should be expelled from the tube. This method is commonly called "blasting" or "popping."
Step3
Inhale gently at first in case there is any residual water. Blast a second time if needed.
Step4
Continue blasting whenever water enters the snorkel.

Tips & Warnings

  • When you're floating facedown in the water in a relaxed position, the snorkel should extend vertically above your head.
  • It's normal for snorkels to flood with water periodically because of wave action as you move about on the surface. Practice purging your snorkel until it becomes routine.
  • If you are ascending to the surface, you can tilt your head back and exhale a small puff of air into the snorkel. Then as you rise, the air puff will expand and clear the tube naturally so that by the time you reach the surface the snorkel is already clear. This trick takes some practice to perfect, but it requires less effort than blasting.
  • Some snorkels have a type of one-way valve at the top that is intended to stop any water from washing inside while on the surface. These rarely work as advertised and are not needed.

Comments

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on 7/10/2007 Well I just learned to swim.Now Im very excited and I want to learn Snokeling.I am not sure of which brand to use.I would feel safe with USCG issued equipment.Mind you I will be learning/practicing the breathing in a swimming pool.So no worries.I just don't want to have to go out and purchase other equipment cause I know someone is gonna say something to me about the stuff I have is not good or something like that.Thanks!!!

Anonymous

Anonymous said

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on 8/8/2006 When snorkeling, watch out for jellyfish and sharks. Be sure to purchase a snorkel with a valve on the bottom so you can blow any annoying traces of water in the tube, by placing your hand over the end and blowing.
Take a diving knife if your snorkeling in an area where you're unsure about sharks, as it could save you if you're attacked! Enjoy!

Anonymous

Anonymous said

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on 2/15/2006 To stop the mask from fogging you can spit on the inside of it or use salt water. If water gets in, breathe out through your nose to blow the water out.

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eHow Article:  How to Use a Snorkel

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