Night Diving

• Why dive at night?

• Special equipment

• Night diving procedures

• Overview of night dive

Night DivingReasons

• Curiosity - offers a certain mystique and fascination

• Nocturnal marine life • A new look at a familiar site• Additional chance to dive • Night diving allows you to see the

natural colors of organisms by providing artificial light

Night DivingReasons

• Bioluminescence– The light produced by

a chemical reaction from an organism which is transferred to light energy.

Night DivingLights

• Types of Lights– Disposable battery or rechargeable– Different types of handles

Night Diving Lights

• Lights– Primary and Backup light

Night DivingLight Use

• Keep lights off when underway• Make sure light is on when

entering water• DO NOT point in others eyes• To gain attention• U/W Hand signals• Surface signals• Turn light off when not in use.• Light maintenance

KEY LARGO

Each diver will be required to supply four new “C” batteries for your USF issued light.

Night DivingLight Stick

• Each diver should be equipped with a light stick.– Battery powered or chemical stick– Allows for a visual above and below water

Night DivingUnderwater Strobe Light

• Serves as visual reference for the descent line and the entry/exit point.

Night Diving Procedures

• Select a familiar dive site that is easy to navigate.• Plan your entry at dusk• Reduce the distance you swim

Night Diving Procedures

• Remain close to your buddy • Note any special features on your buddy as well

as your group leader.• Decide who will lead and who will follow• Determine what to do in the event you become

separated.

Night Diving Procedures

• Monitor Air Supply

• Control Anxiety– Stop, Breathe, Think, Act

Overview of Night Dive Key Largo

• We will be diving on a site dived earlier that day• The water temperature will not change significantly• Topside conditions will have a tendency to be cool-

bring something warm to wear for the return trip.

• Do not turn your lights or lightsticks on while the vessel is underway

• Stay with your buddy and your group• Your dive leader will review additional emergency

procedures prior to the dive

Night Diving Key Largo

• There will limited time between afternoon dives and night dives – 1 hour max. - bring food for between dives

• Between dives remove only your tanks• After the night dive stow gear in locker• Eat dinner

Night Diving Key Largo

• Spaghetti, sauce, meatballs and bread will be provided• You will need to provide a beverage & salad if desired• Don’t be late – get a good nights sleep