Scuba Diver Statement

, understand that as a PADI Scuba Diver, I should:

1. Dive under the direct in-water supervision of a PADI Divemaster, Assistant Instructor, or Instructor. Listen carefully to dive briefings and respect the advice of those supervising my dive activities. Adhere to the buddy system on every dive.

2. Dive in conditions better than or similar to those in which I was trained. This includes limiting maximum dive depth to 12 metres/40 feet, or receiving additional instruction before diving deeper.

3. Maintain a reasonable fitness level for diving and dive within personal limitations. Avoid overexertion while diving and not dive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

4. Obtain air fills and dive equipment only from a reputable source, such as a PADI Dive Center or Resort, to avoid contaminated air. Check that the cylinder used is not marked for enriched air (nitrox).

5. Maintain proper buoyancy while diving. Adjust weight for neutral buoyancy at the surface with no air in the BCD and take into account buoyancy changes due to air use during the dive. Establish positive buoyancy by ditching the weight belt and/or infl ating the BCD when in distress on the surface.

6. Continue dive education to ensure appropriate training and experience before exceeding the limits of the PADI Scuba Diver rating. Review skills under supervision in a controlled environment after periods of diving inactivity.

7. Breathe properly for diving. Never breath hold or skip breathe when using compressed air.

8. Ascend at a rate of 18 metres/60 feet per minute or slower from every dive and make a safety stop at the end of every dive.

9. Use complete, properly fitting, well-maintained and familiar scuba equipment. Consult a dive professional for advice about and orientation to any unfamiliar equipment.

10. Know and obey local laws and regulations relevant to recreational diving.

11. Understand that I may upgrade to Open Water Diver to dive without professional supervision anytime after my PADI Scuba Diver certification date.

12. Understand that deviating from safe diving practices will increase the risk of decompression illness, other injury or death and recognize that for safety and well being PADI Scuba Divers should abide by these recommendations and seek additional information or advice before diving in unfamiliar situations.

I have read the above statements and have had any questions answered to my satisfaction. I understand the importance and purposes of these established practices. I recognize they are for my own safety and well being, and that failure to adhere to them can place me in jeopardy when diving.