One of the best things about scuba diving is that there are seemingly endless courses to suit every desire, preference and need. If you just want to take great photos underwater or whether you’re looking to go into deep caves and wrecks. Rest assured there’s a course for you. The PADI Rescue Diver course is one that is often described as the most challenging, but also the most rewarding.
Why choose this course?
There are many reasons scuba divers choose this course. It helps build confidence in the water, it makes you a better buddy and many dive professionals have to do this course as part of their professional training. The Rescue course may seem intimidating and even outright scary, but the expectation never matches the reality. Here are four things you need to know before signing up:
It is one of the most rewarding courses you’ll ever do
They tell you this before the course, but they don’t tell you why. This is because the Rescue course is beneficial to the individual in so many ways. This is usually the first time the average diver comes face to face with “emergency” scenarios. While it can be stressful, learning how to deal with all the potential problems that may occur underwater immensely boosts your confidence. Completing this course shows you what you’re really capable of.
It’s also one of the most challenging courses you’ll ever do
Nothing that’s easy is worth it and nothing that’s worth it is easy. Part of the reason the PADI Rescue Diver course is so rewarding is that it is so challenging. After completing your academics, your instructor will simulate a range of emergency scenarios. During these you will need to exercise the correct steps to bring both you and the victim to safety. It seems like a lot to remember as you’re giving rescue breaths, towing a diver to the boat while removing two sets of gear, but practice makes perfect.
You’ll test your physical strength and stamina
…and be surprised! Expect strenuous days doing physical activities like towing divers and lifting divers into boats. Also swimming in search patterns underwater and practising rescue scenarios. Many times students are wary of this physical aspect, but rising to the challenge is half the battle won already. It only seems impossible until it’s done.
It’s as fun as it is serious
Becoming a Rescue Diver is serious, but that doesn’t mean it can’t also be fun. While there will be times that are stressful (because emergencies are stressful), a good instructor will have a balanced approach. You will have fun looking for “lost divers” and doing all the other skills, and you will learn along the way!
Once you’re a certified Rescue Diver, the skills have been drilled into your mind so much that it will be hard to forget what you’ve learnt during the course. But keep in mind that the dive professional or operation you choose will play a big role in your success during the course. Find out more about our PADI Rescue Diver course here.