This article will cover the Standard Procedures for rescue of surface supplied divers. It covers CPR, identification and rescue of a diver who has been lost. It is important to have a complete certification before you can rescue a diver. If you have a full certification, you will be able save the lives of others divers in an emergency. It discusses how to locate the victim, perform CPR on unconscious divers, and other important topics.
Standard procedure for rescuing a surface supplied diver
Rescuers must immediately respond to any difficulty a surface-supplied diver may be experiencing and transport him or her safely to safety. This is often a diving bell, an area where the diver will not drown, or a place where first aid can usually be administered. There may be times when the bell isn't reachable. In these cases, rescue divers have to modify their response.
Securing the umbilicals is the first step to rescue. The bell should be ejected by the diver at the place where the umbilical enters. The surface tender should then follow in the footsteps of the diver's umbilical as it leaves the bell. Depending on the type of bell, the diver may also be supplied through the individual umbilicals inside the bell. To avoid snagging the umbilicals, they must be secured.
The diver's tender, as well as the diving supervisor, should direct 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 vital to maintain constant contact with the diver during this procedure.
Recognizing a lost diver
Identifying a lost diver can be a challenging task, but fortunately, there are many ways to find someone missing in the water. Contact the authorities first. In this case, the diver was reported missing on June 17 in Mukilteo, Washington. 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.
A MOB device is another option to help locate a lost diver. This device sends out distress signals using an underwater radio. The device can only work if other vessels receive it. While it is recommended that you use this device, it may not be practical. Some boats lack AIS technology which makes it difficult for them to find a lost diver. SAR teams will still be able to assist the diver if there is an AIS signal on the vessel.
CPR is performed on an unconscious diver
CPR may be performed if the diver stops breathing. By sliding your hand under the diver’s arm, or reaching up to hold his/her breathing equipment, you can open the airway. Now, hold the diver's breathing equipment and pinch his or her nose. Roll him/her toward you. If breathing isn't returning, take two rescue breathes and then repeat the procedure up to three times.
It is important that you don't attempt to rescue the diver's bell during CPR. This could cause blood to pool. It is important to continue rescue breathing until the diver is able to regain consciousness. This could mean that the diver needs to be taken to a deck decompression chamber. CPR can be complicated for unresponsive divers, but it is necessary.
Positive buoyancy can be used to bring the diver to the surface if you can see his pulse. This will enable your to assess the condition and determine if rescue breathing is necessary. Alternating two rescue breaths and thirty chest compressions can be used if the diver stops breathing. Alternate your breathing for a maximum period of 30 seconds.