- BWRAF – Begin With Review And Friend (Start with an overview and a partner)
Table of Contents
What is a pre-dive safety check?
As divers, safety is our top priority. First, safety for yourself, then for other divers and even for marine life. Since we are all fallible, follow-up for BWRAF inspection equipment problems and human errors can be eliminated.
According to the DAN compilation, “10 ways to prevent scuba diving accidents“, five out of 10 scuba diving accidents could have been prevented with a pre-dive check with a partner. Checking your equipment and your partner's equipment is essential to underwater safety, so don't forget to check with your partner before each dive!
It is pre-dive safety procedure, during which the diver's diving equipment is checked, in one way, and always before diving.
The pre-dive safety check poster is available as a download in several versions and
for dimensions, in the section – Safety check before diving. The poster is a visual aid that reminds divers how to perform the checks, it can be printed and displayed anywhere, for example - by the pool, on a boat or dive site as needed.
A safety check before diving is mandatory
Analysis of diving incidents shows that lack of security checks before diving, may cause various inconveniences, including interrupted diving activity or injuries. Based on real-life cases, divers have been observed to skip safety checks due to forgetfulness or misconceptions, thinking that it is only for beginners.
Skipping the security check leads to various deviations - skipping the safety guidelines becomes a normal practice for divers.
Regular pre-dive checks increase safety
PADI BWRAF the poster was created to remind divers that a safety check is mandatory and includes key elements that enhance diving safety. The poster was created because research has found that people take posters more seriously and uses them more than regular notes.
On the poster, everyone can see what to expect during the security check. The poster is available in the international language of diving - English, you can download it, print it and use it before diving.
BEFORE SAFETY CHECK
After donning your gear, begin a dive gear review with your partner
- BCD
- SCALES
- BELTS AND CONNECTIONS
- BRIGHT
- FINAL CHECK
Before diving security check takes only 1-2 minutes, yet it reduces the risks of aborting the dive and even various diving incidents.
Before each dive, the diver-mate team checks the following five things visually and audibly:
#1 BCD test
- Belt tension is correct
- The balloon is secured securely
- Inflator and deflator function tested
- Partially inflated BCD
- Surface signaling device (whistle) attached or in BCD pocket
- The team knows how to inflate and deflate each other's BCDs
#2 Weightu check
- Correctly selected weights (Check the amount of weights for the first time after entering the water, eye height)
- Weights placed on the body correctly
- Quick weight removal is possible
- Removing the weights ensures sufficient buoyancy
- Couples know how to take each other's weight off quickly
#3 Belts and switches
- All BCD harnesses are properly secured, adjusted and functional
- We recheck the BCD and weight pockets
- The team knows how to release each other's BCD straps
#4 Air
- Balloon valves are fully open (both partners confirm this to each other)
- The team agrees that all divers have enough air for the dive and an adequate air reserve
- Recheck the BCD and, if present, the connection and operation of the inflatable dry suit.
- Testing the primary and alternate regulator with breathing
- The alternative regulator is properly secured in the chest area
- The partner knows the location of the other's alternative regulator, how to remove it and its operation
#5 Mate: Final Check
- Check that everything is secured, repair if missing, misaligned, broken gear, stuck hoses, etc.
- Check dive computer operation, settings (EANx%, air)
- Review communications/hand signals (as needed)
- The couple agrees that the primary goal is to return safely – it trumps all other considerations
- Couples agree that anyone can end a dive at any time and for any reason.
Be prepared to learn further with the PADI Rescue Diver course
The diving club "Daivings" offers two PADI courses, which specifically help divers to better prepare for emergency situations both in water and on land. These are PADI rescue divers (PADi Rescue diver) course and PADI first aid, EFR (Emergency First Response) first and second aid course.
To participate in the PADI rescue diver course, you must be certified in one of the following courses: PADI Advanced Open Water Diver (advanced open water diver) or PADI Adventure Diver with a completed Navigation Dive (adventure diver with a completed navigation dive specialization).
The rescue diver course will prepare you for most situations that can occur on the surface and underwater. After completing this course, you will be able to provide assistance in an emergency situation until the arrival of professionals.
The EFR course is a prerequisite for the rescue diver course, but is also very useful in its own right. After completing the EFR course, you will be certified in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and automated external defibrillator (AED) as well as first and second aid.
Where to apply for diving training in Latvia?
🤿😀 If you are looking for diving advice or advice on the sport of scuba diving with or without balloons, call a PADI Diver Instructor (PADI diving instructor and lecturer Valters Preimanis) t. 220-77-202 (Whatsapp 220-77-202).
Diving is a wonderful way to explore the underwater world and enjoy the wonders the sea has to offer. However, it is important to remember about safety. Do a Pre-Dive Safety Check (BWRAF) before every dive, to make sure you are ready and equipped for a safe dive.
Enjoy diving adventures and discover the beauty of the underwater world!
More information:
- PADI website: https://www.padi.com/
- Pre-Dive Safety Check (BWRAF)
Many thanks to Walter Preiman for sharing his experience and recommendations!
