HOW TO MAKE A SAFE LADDER EXIT (FOR SCUBA) - ZIPKINCI

**Aşkın YILDIRIM** · 12-12-2006

How To Make a Safe Ladder Exit by Melissa Rodriguez,

One of the most challenging aspects of scuba diving comes at the end of a dive - climbing up the boat ladder. This is especially true in rough water. Here's how to exit the water safely.

Here's How:
1-During your 15 ft. (4.5m) safety stop, assess the surface conditions.
2-For calm conditions, wait until the area around the ladder is clear of divers and remain at a safe distance until it is your turn to exit.
3-For rough surface conditions, study the rhythms of the boat and ladder and approach the ladder during the calm between swells.
4-When the exit ladder is clear and it is your turn to exit, approach and grasp the side railing of the ladder near the bottom rung.
5-Hold onto the railing. Do not sit or stand on the ladder.
7-Remain under the water and off the ladder to take off your fins.
8-Once your fins are off and secured, center yourself on the ladder for climbing.
9- Place both feet on a rung with your knees slightly bent while the ladder is in a downward motion, then straighten your legs and let the momentum of the boat assist you as you climb.
10-Keep your mask on and your regulator in your mouth until you are safely on deck.

Tips:
*Pay close attention to pre-dive briefings for instructions from the crew on how they want you to exit.
*If you fall in the water, do not panic. Continue to breath through your regulator, compose yourself, and try again.
*Do not float under the hull or swim platform.
*Always be aware of other divers around you.