Happy Cinco de Mayo Everyone!

During our recent e-board meeting I heard mentioned that someone within the club had missed out on a dive because of a leaking air hose that was apparently discovered aboard the dive boat. This reminded me that now is a very good time for many divers to get their gear serviced. I’m talking especially to you fair weather divers. Your dive gear has been in the closet for about 6 months. Now the weather is heating up and it’s time to get back in the water.

It may be appropriate to have both your regulator and your BC serviced by a trained professional. In some cases an annual checkup continues the manufacturer’s warranty for another year.

At the very least, try on all your gear. Test it out. See if it’s comfortable. Are you the same size you were 6 months ago??

Do both your mouthpieces breathe comfortably?

Does your buoyancy compensator fill and hold air without deflating?

Do you have an opportunity to submerge in a swimming pool. If yes, test everything underwater and then take your gear off and visually inspect it while it is submerged. Make sure you’re wearing your mask when you do this. If you see any bubbles, something needs attention.

And, if you test your gear in a pool or freshwater lake don’t forget you’ll need more weight to submerge in the ocean then you do in the fresh water.

Be safe everyone and make sure your dive buddies are safe as well!

- Dave Wills