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 About
S.C.U.B.A.
"Have you thought about learning
to scuba dive, but just were not sure? Now is your
chance. There's no time like the present. Who can
become a diver? What does it take to get certified?
Why learn to dive? Hopefully, I can answer some of
these questions and gently persuade you to embark
on an adventure of a lifetime.
To obtain an Open Water Diver Certification, you
must be 15 years old. Young adults (ages 12-14 for
NAUI and 10-14 for PADI) can receive a Junior Open
Water Diver Certification. Before getting certified,
you should be in good physical health. If you are
not sure that you're fit enough, see your doctor.
Also, you don't need to be an Olympic swimmer, but
you do need to have a few basic skills. If you can't
swim, sign up for lessons.
Are you ready to get started? The best way to learn
to dive and get certified is trough a reputable program
at your local dive shop.
Most dive shops offer PADI and NAUI certifications.
Other certification agencies include: the YMCA, Scuba
Schools International, and PDIC. It doesn't hurt to
compare them. It is also important to choose an instructor
that you trust and feel comfortable with. He/She should
be thorough, patient, and supportive. Don't stick
with someone you are not comfortable with. Scuba diving
is a dangerous sport. You need the proper training
to be successful and safe.
Now you are probably wondering how long the courses
are and how much do they cost. First, the course length
depends on you and your schedule. If you had nothing
but free time on your hands, you could be a diver
in two weeks. But, must of us work and leisure time
is a rare commodity. It took me two months to get
my certification. A complete course could cost between
$175.00 and $250.00. This includes books, tables,
and rental equipment. You may spend more if you prefer
to buy your own personal equipment (mask, snorkel,
fins, weight, weight belt, and boots) or take a resort
course.
There are many other scuba skills you can learn,
such as: underwater photography, deep diving, wreck
diving, and spear fishing. Two thirds of the earth
is underwater. It is an exciting world of marine life,
caves, and shipwrecks just waiting for you to discover
the beauty.
Get your questions answered by friendly scuba divers
at the Scuba Diving Forum. For current events, don't
forget to check the calendar." ~ Melissa Rodriguez
from www.About.com
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