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Diving Dangers
by Zak Breezer
http://www.bsdiving.com
Those with a thirst for adventure are always seeking out
one challenge after another. The adrenaline rush that
comes from taking on physically exhausting or dangerous
activities is what compels them to go white water rafting
or skydiving. Such people are generally fine so long as
they seek out the necessary training and expertise to
tackle such challenges.
One of the most tempting and dangerous challenges attempted
by the adventurous at heart is underwater diving with scuba
diving and snorkeling being the two options to choose from
for this activity. Both require specialized equipment and
training. Scuba diving allows expert swimmers to explore
the depths of the sea with a wet suit and oxygen tank.
Snorkeling is an activity for great swimmers which allows
them the freedom to explore shallower areas such as reefs.
Caution is necessary in both cases.
The loss of oxygen is probably the biggest danger because
should a scuba diver become damaged or even lost in the
sea, a race to the surface is the only means of avoiding
drowning. Snorkelers also must worry about an unexpected
loss of air supply and need to make a made dash to a boat
or shore. Making certain that the tank functions properly
and constantly monitoring it while submerged are vital for
scuba divers because a simple kink in the air line can
spell disaster while under water.
The bends are the other great danger for divers exploring
the deep sea. They occur when a diver either surfaces
or dives too quickly. The bloodstream becomes deluged with
dangerously high levels of oxygen that can cause problems
for the circulatory system. The condition can actually be
fatal if not immediately addressed. Never dive alone and
it is a good idea to have a person in the boat while you
are diving so that they can summon aid immediately in case
of problems.
Some consider the biggest threat, if not physically then at
least mentally, to be the presence of man-consuming sharks
like the feared Great White. With several recorded at
lengths exceeding 20 feet and a history of attacking people
and causing dismemberment, severe bleeding, and even death,
it is no wonder why they are so feared in the diving
community. This is why it is a very good idea to stay away
from known feeding grounds of sharks. There are other
creatures whose defensive sting is something to be avoided
such as that of the jellyfish or eel.
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