This article covers the Standard Procedure for rescuing a surface supplied diver. It covers CPR, identification and rescue of a diver who has been lost. Before diving rescues, it is best that you have the full certification. This will allow you to help other divers in emergency situations. It also discusses the importance of locating the victim as well as performing CPR on an unconscious diver.
Standard procedure to rescue surface diver
Rescuers are required to quickly rescue a surface-sustained diver in distress. This is usually a dive bell or an area in which the diver cannot drown. First aid can also be administered. However, there are times when it may not be possible to reach the diver through the bell, so rescue divers must modify their response to meet the situation.
Secure the umbilicals first. The bell should be reached by the diver from the end where the umbilical enters. The surface tender must then follow the diver’s umbilical out the bell. Depending on which bell you have, the diver might also be supplied via the umbilicals within the bell. To prevent them from slipping, the umbilicals should be secured.
The diver's tender and the diving supervisor should give directions to the rescuers. A standby diver may perform other tasks while a diver is being rescued, but he or she must be able to render emergency aid to the diver if needed. It is essential to maintain audio and physical contact with the diver throughout this procedure.
Identifying a lost diver
It can be difficult to identify a lost diver, but there are many options. Contact the authorities first. The case involved a diver who was reported missing in Mukilteo (Washington) on June 17. The call was answered by police and fire departments. The Coast Guard and sheriff’s dive team also searched the area. However, they were unable to find Korompis and his partner.
You can also use a MOB to locate a diver who has disappeared. This device sends out a distress message using an underwater radio frequency. However, the device is only functional if the signal is received by nearby vessels. It is highly recommended to use the device. However, it is not always practical. Some boats do not have AIS technology. They will not be able find a lost diver. SAR services can assist a diver if they have an AIS device.
CPR is performed on an unconscious diver
CPR may be used to revive a diver that isn't breathing. You can either slide your hand under the diver's arm, or reach up and hold the diver's breathing apparatus. Then pinch the nose of your diver and gently roll him or her toward you. If the diver's breathing does not return, take two rescue breaths. Then, roll him or her towards you.
It is important that you don't attempt to rescue the diver's bell during CPR. It could lead to blood pooling. Keep breathing rescue until the diver is conscious again. Transferring the diver to a decompression chamber may be necessary. Although it may seem difficult to perform CPR on an unconscious diver, it is essential.
You can use buoyancy to bring the diver back to the surface if your pulse is visible. This will enable you to assess the condition of the diver, and determine if he requires rescue breaths. You can alternate rescue breaths with 30 chest compressions if the diver isn't breathing. Alternate the breathing patterns for maximum 30 seconds.