What to Do If Your Enriched Air Dive Computer Fails

What To Do If Your Enriched Air Dive Computer Fails: A Diver's Guide to Safety

Diving is an exhilarating experience that often feels like a magical world beneath the surface, teeming with vibrant marine life and untouched beauty. But among the excitement lies an undeniable truth: safety must always come first. So, what if, in the midst of your underwater adventure, your enriched air dive computer suddenly fails? Yeah, it’s a scary thought! Lucky for you, we’re here to break down exactly what to do when your dive computer goes kaput.

First Things First: Breathe

If the unexpected happens and your dive computer fails, there’s one thing you need to keep in mind: you must act. And don’t get us wrong; acting doesn’t mean panicking. Instead, take a moment to breathe and assess. Your immediate concern should be ascending safely.

The Recommended Action: Ascend Immediately

If your dive computer stops functioning, the best course of action is clear: ascend immediately and make a safety stop. No ifs or buts about it! But why ascend right away? Well, when your dive computer fails, it limits your ability to track important metrics like depth, descent rate, and remaining time. And that lack of information puts you at risk of exceeding safe exposure limits, which could lead to decompression sickness.

Imagine you’re in a car with a faulty speedometer—you wouldn’t just keep driving without any idea about your speed, right? It’s the same principle underwater.

Why Safety Stops Matter

Now, let’s delve a little deeper (pun intended!) into the importance of safety stops. These stops allow divers to spend a few minutes at a shallower depth before surfacing. This is crucial because it helps your body off-gas the nitrogen absorbed during your dive.

For those diving with enriched air (or nitrox, as the cool kids call it), these safety stops are especially important. You might have different no-decompression limits than with regular air, meaning that rushing to the surface could lead to complications. So, picture it: you’re rising back up, taking those calculated minutes at a specific depth, and giving your body the chance to safely release all that nitrogen. It’s like giving a gentle hug to your system before you resurface to reality!

What Not To Do

Okay, we’ve covered the dos, but let’s touch on what you should absolutely avoid when your dive computer fails:

1. Don't Continue Diving

This one’s a no-brainer. Continuing your dive without a functioning computer is akin to jumping out of an airplane without a parachute—you just don’t do it. Not only does it obstruct your ability to track your ascent safely, but it also significantly increases the chance of serious injury.

2. Avoid Using a Buddy’s Computer

While it may seem tempting to borrow your buddy’s dive computer, don’t fall into that trap! Each diver's settings can differ, and estimating your safety based on someone else’s metrics can lead to disastrous results. Plus, the buddy should be focused on their dive too. It wasn’t a “two-for-one” special; it’s a single dive for each of you!

3. Steering Clear of Switching Tanks

If your dive computer gives out, switching to a regular air tank isn’t the solution. This additional variable could confuse and complicate your ascent and ultimately introduce another risk factor.

So, you might be wondering: “What else can I do?” Well, following the established protocols and focusing solely on your immediate ascent makes sure you keep your dive as safe as possible.

Trust Your Training

You’ve done the work, gathered the knowledge, and practiced your skills—now’s the time to trust your training. Visualize that moment when your dive computer malfunctions. You can hear your instructor’s voice in your head, reminding you of the basics, right? Always, always remember: ascension and safety stops can be your best friends.

Stay Aware and Prepared

Diving is about more than just a breath of air; it’s about awareness and preparation too. Always check your gear before a dive, and if something feels off, don’t hesitate to address it. Regular maintenance is key for any dive equipment, much like maintaining a car will help it run smoothly. Seek feedback from fellow divers, read up on gear reliability, or even consider joining a diving forum.

Wrapping It All Up

In the underwater world, uncertainty can be part of the thrill. But when diving, your safety checklist should be as thorough as your equipment preparation. If your enriched air dive computer fails, never lose sight of the essential steps: ascend immediately and make that all-important safety stop. This simple yet critical response can prevent potential hazards—making your diving ventures not just thrilling but safe too.

And when you’re back on the surface, you’ll be greeted by not only the joy of a successful dive but also the accomplishment of having handled an unexpected situation like a pro. Dive safe, friends, and may your underwater adventures be brimming with wonder—minus the worries!