Posted by Steve on September 06, 2001 at 07:40:47:
In Reply to: If DIR is such an offensive term then why is IANTD copying it???? posted by MHK on September 05, 2001 at 17:49:26:
Tom Mount approach to DIR is somewhat more liberal but does address real issues that will make diving safer. According to his discription brace yourself I am DIR equipment wise. Some of the big differences that I spotted are.
"As the recreational diver gains experience they usually begin to dive in the 90 foot (27 meter) to 130 foot (39 meter) zone. At this level additional safety training and equipment is needed. For most these depths are beyond a practical, emergency-free ascent zone. Thus in the event of a
gas failure a true backup is mandated. This may be either through the use of a dual outlet valve
featuring two independent regulators or a standard valve and regulator accompanied by a pony tank and regulator. In this manner the diver not only has a back-up system for his buddy, but a redundant one for him/herself. The octopus provides absolutely no back-up for the diver personally. In fact, on deeper dives the octopus may be a threat to
safety. If an octopus free-flows it can cause the dive to be called early or it may inhibit sufficient gas to surface.
A second choice would be to use a backup regulator
that also works as the BC inflator such as those offered by ScubaPro, Eagle, Sherwood and other
manufacturers.
To facilitate this the pressure gauge or console should be secured by a snap hook to the BC or waist strap. This assures ease of use, reduces environmental impact and creates less drag for the diver."
Hopefully this will take some of the stigma off the bailout bottle aka pony and more divers will utilize them for an increase safety margin.
Steve