Scuba diving is an activity in which you breathe air through a regulator, which controls the air pressure. Air from a gas cylinder is compressed and delivered through the regulator to the diver. The pressure is adjusted to match the pressure of water around the diver. This helps the diver breathe comfortably, no matter how deep they go. The regulator is also equipped with an air pressure gauge to monitor your breathing pressure.
There are many reasons to learn to scuba dive, including the sheer enjoyment of exploring the underwater world. Many scuba divers are interested in seeing colorful corals, giant clams, and enormous barrel sponges. These scenes resemble a magical undersea garden. Divers can even spot man-sized parrotfish and hammerhead sharks.
To become a certified diver, a person must first complete a scuba training course. This includes a number of instructor-led sessions in a pool, as well as at least four dives supervised by a qualified instructor. The course also covers safe diving practices and equipment-related skills. After completing the course, a certified diver can dive in similar conditions to those they learned in training.
Scuba divers must ensure that all of their equipment is in good condition. They should not dive with faulty equipment because it could cause serious problems. Divers should also learn to communicate underwater with hand signals. A diver must also monitor his/her depth and breathing gas supply. If there are any problems, divers should immediately consult their instructor.
Scuba divers must also wear buoyancy compensators to avoid falling. These devices secure the scuba tank to the diver's back and contain inflatable air bladders. These devices provide buoyancy to the diver in the water, even when they reach the surface. They also wear wetsuits, which are made of neoprene, a type of rubber, and contain thousands of air cells.
While the environment is generally safe, there are risks of decompression sickness. Nitrogen gas bubbles in the blood can damage tissues or block blood vessels. In particular, decompression sickness can affect the lungs, brain, and spinal cord. In severe cases, decompression sickness can cause delirium or paralysis. In addition, scuba divers should avoid flying after a diving trip.
Scuba is a sport, a lifestyle, and a form of tourism. Some people use scuba for commercial, scientific, or military reasons. Regardless of the motivation, scuba diving offers a thrilling and meditative experience. It allows you to experience nature at a whole new level.
Scuba divers should always consult their physician to ensure they are healthy enough to participate in a diving activity. Scuba divers should be aware of the risks of decompression sickness. Scuba divers should be aware of the risks related to pulmonary and inner ear injuries.