Night diving can be a great way to explore a new underwater world. Night diving is a different underwater world, as many marine mammals are nocturnal. This unique environment requires that you prepare for it. Learn about the equipment that you will need, and how to choose a dive spot.
Bioluminescence
When you turn off your scuba flashlight and wave your arms in water, you can witness the wonders of night diving bioluminescence. Bioluminescent plankton will light up blue as you move your arms around the water. This is caused by certain chemicals being vibrated to produce light.
Bioluminescence can be used by marine life to attract mates or communicate with each other. Syllid fireworms, for example, live below the seafloor in mucus tubes. They then head up to the surface at the full moon.
Precautions
If you've never dived at night before, there are several precautions that you must follow. These precautions include avoiding excessive light and avoiding using dive lights. These lights may cause blurred vision in the night for other divers. You may also be at risk of developing cardiac abnormalities by exposing yourself to the lights.
To limit light exposure, you should also have a buddy team. A dive partner is extra important when night diving. A buddy can help you identify potential subjects. Before you dive, be sure to practice hand signals together. Your buddy should be able to correctly use the light. For example, it is best to not shine the light directly at subjects but rather aim it at their hands.
Equipment
Special equipment is required for night diving. You should ensure that you have backup lights. These lights are small enough to be carried in your pocket. Also, you should have a modeling flashlight. This is a pinpoint light that attaches to a strobe. Divers used to use chemical glow sticks to navigate back to their boat after a dive. However, environmental concerns led to the switch to battery-operated signal light with different colored lenses.
Secondly, you must have a quality dive light and a compass. A light that allows you to communicate with other divers is also essential. Also, you will need to learn how to use your diving equipment's gauges. You should also feel comfortable diving at nights. You should immediately get out if you feel unsafe. It doesn't matter whether the cause is poor training, bad weather, water conditions, or anything else, if you don't feel safe, you could find yourself in a dangerous spot. It is important to avoid using substances that could impair your ability to discern the truth.
Selecting the right dive site
Choose a night dive location that is shallow and calm when you are ready for night diving. Don't complicate your first night dive with extra gear, a camera or deeper diving than you are used to. It will be easier to get comfortable, and your first night dive will go well. You can dive in the twilight or go deeper later.
You will need to research in order to choose the best night dive location. There are many factors you need to consider. You should choose a site with a history of night diving if you have never done it before. You can map the dive site during the day and get oriented. You can also dry your equipment more quickly and warmer during the day.
Choosing a night dive buddy
It can be hard to find a night-diving buddy. You must be cautious when diving at night as the water changes very quickly. Even though the water is colder at night, it should be warmer. A cold dive can make the experience unpleasant and even painful.
Talk to your night dive buddy about your dive plans and any special instructions before diving in the dark. This should include the order that you will complete the dive. Also, discuss how you will communicate with each other using light signals and hand signals.