Re: How does a buddy prevent a fast ascent?


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Posted by Ken Kurtis on September 11, 2000 at 12:56:46:

In Reply to: How does a buddy prevent a fast ascent? posted by skelly on September 11, 2000 at 04:52:31:

Basically, you can't prevent a fast ascent.

The best you hope for is to grab on to the diver and hope that your weight/buoyancy will slow them down. (I try to approach from the front so they can see me and to grab for the chest strap on the BC.)

Assuming the fast ascent is an anxiety/panicky ascent, should you actually be able to grab the diver to slow them down, they may not realize that it's you which will heighten their sense of panic (now they think they're caught on something) and may further complicate the situation, as well as put you in danger.

Remember the first rule of rescue is to not make yourself a victim. Sometimes you may just have to follow them up as quickly as you safely can and render whatever aid is needed once you reach the surface. It's a helpless feeling, but sometimes the best overall solution.

Ken Kurtis
NAUI Instr. #5936
Co-owner, Reef Seekers Dive Co.
Beverly Hills, Ca.



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