How to Enter the Water When Scuba Diving

Scuba diving can be graceful. But above the surface with gear on, one can feel... well... like a fish out of water. Get from one medium to the next with ease.

Things You'll Need

• Scuba Gear

Instructions

From the Shore

1. Put on all gear except mask, fins and snorkel.

2. Walk to within 10 feet of the water, or just above the waves' reach.

3. Don the mask, fins and snorkel.

4. Inflate the buoyancy compensator to half-full.

5. Place the regulator in your mouth.

6. Make sure the tank valve is open.

7. Hold the mask and regulator in place with your left hand.

8. Turn with your back to the water and look over your shoulder.

9. Walk slowly backward into the water, shuffling your fins.

Sitting From an Unstable Platform

1. Don all gear.

2. Inflate the buoyancy compensator to half-full.

3. Place the regulator in your mouth.

4. Make sure the tank valve is open.

5. Hold the mask and regulator in place with your left hand.

6. Grab the gauges and alternate air with your right hand.

7. Sit at the edge of the platform (or boat) with your back to the water, tank hanging over the side.

8. Cross your ankles.

9. Roll backward into the water. Buoyancy will eventually right you.

Standing From a Stable Platform

1. Don all gear.

2. Inflate the buoyancy compensator to half-full.

3. Place the regulator in your mouth.

4. Make sure the tank valve is open.

5. Hold the mask and regulator in place with your left hand.

6. Grab the gauges and alternate air with your right hand.

7. Stand close to the edge of the water.

8. Take a long stride with one leg so the fin lands flat on the surface.

9. Splash and bob.

Tips & Warnings

• Lean back slightly against the waves to avoid getting knocked forward.

• Scuba diving 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.