ASSISTING IN PADI RESCUE DIVER TRAINING

As part of Divemaster Training, I assisted on a PADI Rescue Diver Course with Hawaii Eco Divers

Assisting in the PADI Rescue Diver training allowed me to get a different perspective of taking courses. It gave me the opportunity to provide my knowledge and training to the new trainees. One of the goals of rescue training is to help dives become confident and safe rescue divers. 

PADI Rescue Divers in training take the trail down to Shark’s Cove to complete their final day of training.

This experience is very important to divemasters in training, whether it be assisting on a rescue course or an open water course. It allows you to go from being a student, to a trainer and leader. Being a divemaster means being a strong leader. Divers rely on you to safely lead them through a dive or any kind of training. So getting comfortable in that position of being a professional guide, rather than a recreational diver/student, is the key to success.

Not only did assisting on this course allow me to grow my leadership skills and gain experience assisting courses, but also gave me a chance to practice my own rescue diving skills. We don’t always have to handle emergencies. Therefore, it’s important to practice the skills in the event that an emergency does come up.

Taking the Rescue Diver Course

Looking back on my own training, I remember the rescue diver course being the course that turned my mindset from recreational diver to a more professional level. I became more aware of other divers I was with and constantly checking in on them. Checking in sometimes just meant a simple diver “OK?” symbol or checking on their air. 

Becoming rescue diver certified also gave me more confidence underwater. I know how to handle emergency situations, big or small. It makes me feel more comfortable underwater, and ensures I know what to do to prevent one victim from turning into two by putting myself in danger. 

Whether you are a recreational diver, or an aspiring dive professional, getting certified as a rescue diver will provide you with the knowledge and comfort to better enjoy your dives.

Newly trained PADI Rescue Divers await instruction underwater from the dive instructor.

Recap of Rescue Training

There are many skills for divers to master before they can officially become certified. It includes both surface and underwater scenarios. To get a taste of what training is like and some of the skills taught, check out this video.

Written by Divemaster Intern Mikena Shay