This article describes the Standard Procedure to rescue a surface-supplied diver. It covers CPR, identification and rescue of a diver who has been lost. Before you attempt a dive rescue, it is best to obtain a complete 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 for rescuing a surface supplied diver
When a surface supplied diver is in difficulty, rescuers need to immediately act and bring him or her to a safe place. This is usually a dive bell or an area in which the diver cannot drown. First aid can also be administered. There may be times when the bell isn't reachable. In these cases, rescue divers have to modify their response.
First, secure the umbilicals of the diver. 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 which bell you have, the diver might also be supplied via the umbilicals within 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 crucial to ensure constant physical and audio contact with the diver while performing 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 instance, the diver had been reported missing on June 17, in Mukilteo. Police and fire departments responded to the call, and the Coast Guard and sheriff's dive team searched the area. They were unable to locate Korompis or his partner.
Another way to find a lost diver, is to use a MOB system. This device uses an underwater radio signal to send out a distress signal. However, the device is only functional if the signal is received by nearby vessels. This device is highly recommended, but it is not always practical. Some boats don't have AIS technology so they won't be able track a missing diver. SAR teams will still be able to assist the diver if there is an AIS signal on the vessel.
Performing CPR on an unresponsive 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 breathing isn't returning, take two rescue breathes and then repeat the procedure up to three times.
It is important to not attempt to retrieve the bell of the diver during CPR. This could cause blood to pool. Continue to breathe rescue until the diver regains consciousness. This could mean that the diver needs to be taken to a deck decompression chamber. It can be difficult to perform CPR for an unresponsive diver.
Positive buoyancy can be used to bring the diver to the surface if you can see his pulse. This will allow you to evaluate the condition of the unresponsive diver and determine whether or not he needs rescue breaths. You can alternate rescue breaths with 30 chest compressions if the diver isn't breathing. Alternate your breathing pattern for no more than 30 seconds.