How to Free Yourself From Seaweed When Snorkeling

Seaweed entanglements are common for adventurous snorkelers who enjoy exploring kelp beds.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Dive Masks
• Pair Swimming Fins
• Snorkels

1. Remain calm and refrain from thrashing around.
2. Identify what appendage or piece of equipment the seaweed has "grabbed."
3. Use both hands to lift the seaweed up and away from your body.
4. Kick backward and back paddle with your hands if you are hung up when moving forward.
5. Spin in a circular motion once you're clear to ensure you are fully free from the seaweed.

Tips & Warnings

• The best way to stay free of seaweed is to avoid swimming directly through it. Snorkel around the edges of the seaweed and you can still enjoy the sights.
• Take your time freeing yourself if you are on the surface. Remember ' you can breathe.
• Seaweed catches most often on your snorkel, fin straps, weight belt, or any other piece of protruding equipment. Check these areas first.
• As a last resort, break the seaweed with your hands or cut it with a dive knife ' if you have one. Don't worry too much about the damage. Seaweed is one of the world's fastest-growing plants.
• Remember that although seaweed is alive, it isn't attacking you.
• Snorkeling is an inherently dangerous activity that can result in serious injury or death. We recommend that you seek proper training and equipment before attempting this activity.