If you didn’t go diving for six months or longer, you might be asking yourself whether you will remember all the dive theory and skills necessary to dive safely.
Although you will most likely remember most of the necessary skills and procedures, there are high chances that you might have forgotten some practicalities here and there which might affect the safety of your dives.
Don’t wait for the day or week right before your next scuba holiday. Here are some actionable ideas that will help you recall all your diving theory and skills.
To refresh your diving knowledge after a long break, you should read through your open water diver theory. Have your equipment serviced or visually inspect the diving equipment you will be renting. To be fully prepared, consider taking a refresher course.
1. Refresh Your Dive Theory Knowledge
Refreshing your dive theory knowledge is an essential step for anyone who wants to get back into scuba diving.
Whether it’s been a few months or a few years since you last went diving, it’s important to remember that the dive environment is constantly changing and the rules and best practices for diving have evolved over time.
As a result, it’s essential to refresh your dive theory knowledge to ensure that you have the latest information and are equipped with the skills and knowledge you need to dive safely and confidently.
A way to refresh your dive theory knowledge is to read dive books or articles.
There are many excellent resources available that will help you brush up on dive theory. You can also attend dive shows, trade shows, or industry events, which are great opportunities to learn about the latest dive gear, dive destinations, and dive techniques.
The following posts will help you refresh your dive theory:
- PADI OWD Section 1 Knowledge Review Answers Explained
- PADI OWD Section 2 Knowledge Review Answers Explained
- PADI OWD Section 3 Knowledge Review Answers Explained
- PADI OWD Section 4 Knowledge Review Answers Explained
- PADI OWD Section 5 Knowledge Review Answers Explained
Going through the most common terms and abbreviations in scuba diving is also a great way to refresh your knowledge.
2. Renew Your Dive Insurance
If you’ve taken a break from diving and are now thinking about getting back into it, renewing your dive insurance is one of the first things you should do.
Here’s how renewing your dive insurance can help you get back into scuba diving.
Protection from Dive-Related Injuries: Dive accidents can occur at any time and can lead to severe injuries.
With a renewed dive insurance policy, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that you’re covered in case of an emergency. This will help you focus on diving and enjoying the experience rather than worrying about the financial consequences of an injury.
Coverage for Diving Equipment: Diving equipment can be expensive and replacing it can be a significant financial burden. Renewing your dive insurance policy can provide coverage for your equipment, which can help you get back into diving without having to worry about the cost of replacing damaged or lost gear.
Access to Emergency Medical Services: Dive accidents can happen anywhere, and it’s essential to have access to emergency medical services.
With a renewed dive insurance policy, you’ll have access to a network of medical facilities and providers that can provide the necessary treatment in case of an emergency.
3. Refresh Your Surface Skills (Equipment Set up, Buddy Check)
Scuba diving is an exciting experience that allows you to explore the underwater world. However, diving also involves certain risks and dangers that can lead to accidents and injuries. Your surface skills can help prevent these accidents and injuries.
Here’s how refreshing your surface skills can help you get back into scuba diving:
Equipment Set Up: Setting up your dive equipment properly is essential for a safe dive. Refreshing your skills in this area can help you avoid any potential equipment problems and ensure that your dive gear is working properly.
It’s a good idea to take a few minutes to check your gear before each dive and make any necessary adjustments.
Buddy Check: Scuba diving is a team sport, and it’s essential to have a dive buddy who you can rely on in case of an emergency.
Refreshing your skills in performing a buddy check (remember what the acronym BWRAF stands for?) can help ensure that you and your dive buddy are both properly prepared and equipped for your dive.
This can help you avoid potential problems and ensure that both of you are ready to dive safely.
Improved Dive Experience: Refreshing your surface skills can help you have a more enjoyable dive experience. Knowing that you and your dive buddy are properly prepared and equipped can help you focus on the dive and enjoy the experience to the fullest.
4. Have Your Dive Gear Serviced
Scuba diving is an exciting and adventurous sport, but it also requires proper maintenance of your gear to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
If you’ve taken a break from diving and are now thinking about getting back into it, having your gear serviced is a crucial step in preparing for your next dive.
Here’s how having your gear serviced can help you get back into scuba diving:
Safe and Reliable Equipment: Having your dive gear serviced can help ensure that it’s functioning properly and is safe to use.
A professional service technician can check for any wear and tear and make any necessary repairs, ensuring that your equipment is in good condition and ready for your next dive.
Peace of Mind: Diving with properly serviced gear can provide you with peace of mind knowing that you’re using equipment that is safe and reliable.
This can help you focus on the dive and enjoy the experience without worrying about any potential problems with your gear.
Increased Comfort: Well-maintained dive gear will provide a comfortable dive experience.
A professional service technician can adjust your gear to ensure that it fits properly and is comfortable to wear, making your dive more enjoyable.
If you have not been diving for more than one year it is highly likely that at least your regulator and computer will need to be checked by a professional service technician.
5. Take a Refresher Course
Scuba diving is an amazing experience that allows you to explore the underwater world, but it also requires a certain level of skill and knowledge to ensure a safe and enjoyable dive.
If you’ve taken a long (more than 6 months) break from diving and are now thinking about getting back into it, taking a refresher course is an excellent way to prepare for your next dive.
Here’s how taking a refresher course can help you get back into scuba diving:
Updated Knowledge: The scuba diving industry is constantly evolving, and new techniques and technologies are being developed all the time.
Taking a refresher course can help you stay up-to-date with the latest developments and ensure that you have the latest information and skills.
Improved Safety: Scuba diving involves certain risks, but a refresher course can help you minimize these risks by providing updated information and training on safe diving practices.
You’ll have the opportunity to review important dive procedures, emergency protocols, and equipment use, which can help you dive safely and confidently.
Enhanced Dive Experience: A refresher course can help you improve your dive experience by allowing you to practice and refine your dive skills.
You’ll have the chance to work with a dive instructor who can help you identify areas for improvement and provide guidance on how to enhance your diving abilities.
I strongly recommend to any diver that has been out of the water for long to take the PADI ReActivate Scuba Refresher program. You can even take it at your local dive shop before going on your next scuba trip.
Besides getting you up to speed with the most recent diving techniques, this will also be a great opportunity to connect with your local diving community.
Check out the nearest PADI shop and ask them about the ReActivate Program.