Snorkeling and scuba diving are exciting ways to explore the underwater world, but safety should always come first. Whether you’re floating on the surface or diving deep below, knowing how to protect yourself is critical for the best experience possible.
Safety Precautions
Before heading into the water, ensure your gear is in excellent condition. Snorkels, masks, fins and wetsuits should fit comfortably and function properly. For scuba divers, having a serviced regulator, tank and buoyancy control device (BCD) is essential. Always use equipment designed for your level of expertise.
Know your physical fitness and limitations. Scuba diving, in particular, requires cardiovascular and respiratory strength. If you have medical conditions such as asthma, heart problems or claustrophobia, consult a doctor before diving. It’s also recommended to research the body of water you’ll be exploring. Be aware of local currents, tides and potential hazards such as jellyfish or coral.
Assessing Dive Safety and Training Requirements
To ensure it’s safe to dive, assess the conditions. Clear water, minimal currents and good visibility make for safe snorkeling and diving experiences. Avoid entering the water in stormy weather or when waves are high. Local diving professionals or marine forecast tools can guide you about ideal conditions.
Scuba diving requires proper certification. Beginners should enroll in courses such as the PADI Open Water Diver program, which teaches basic skills, underwater communication and emergency procedures.
“During a scuba certification course, one learns the necessary precautions to take while diving, as well as how to handle common issues like water in a mask and how to control one’s buoyancy when underwater,” says Chadwick Bailey, owner of Scuba Savvy in Broken Arrow.
Snorkeling does not require formal training, but learning how to breathe efficiently and swim with fins is helpful.
“We teach snorkeling classes, which teach students proper fin kicking techniques, mask clearing techniques, as well as some basic breath hold skills that allow even more freedom when out exploring the underwater world,” Bailey says.
Safe Descents and Ascents
“Proper ascending and descending techniques are a crucial part of scuba training,” says Frank Campbell, owner of Frank’s Underwater Sports in Edmond. “Learning how to do these skills properly is a key part of scuba training.”
Entering the water safely depends on the environment. If snorkeling, glide into the water feet-first from a boat or gently wade from the shore. For scuba diving, a controlled, feet-first descent helps maintain proper buoyancy. Use a rope or guide, if available, to descend steadily and avoid damaging marine life.
When ascending from scuba dives, safety stops are critical. A three-minute pause at around 15 feet allows your body to release nitrogen and reduces the risk of decompression sickness. Never ascend faster than your bubbles. Snorkelers should surface slowly to avoid overexertion or inhaling water.
Finding Your Team and Destination
Whether snorkeling or scuba diving, joining those of like minds can increase your enjoyment. If your friends and family don’t like the water, there are avenues available to connect with those that do.
“Your local dive center is the ideal place to meet your diving community,” Campbell says. “Local lakes in our region are ideal ways to explore our amazing world underwater.”
Regional destinations like Tenkiller Lake, Broken Bow Lake and Lake Murray are great spots for Oklahoma water enthusiasts to snorkel and scuba. Be sure to contact a local dive center if you have questions or to schedule your activities.
And remember: By respecting the underwater environment and following safety guidelines, you can explore the wonders beneath the waves safely.
