OPEN WATER SIDEMOUNT DIVER
Program Purpose
The purpose of the Open Water Sidemount program is to familiarize the diver with the techniques, equipment, and mindset required for sidemount diving.
The program will enable the diver to proficiently assemble and use sidemount equipment and to teach the diver the proper techniques to safely conduct dives that warrant the use of sidemount equipment.
Program Prerequisites
Certifications requirements:
Candidate must hold an Open Water Diver certification
Age requirement:
– Candidate must be a minimum of 15 years of age for diver qualification with a parent or guardian authorization
– Candidate must be a minimum of 18 years of age without guardian approval
Program Requirements
Candidates must complete:
– A minimum of 120 minutes of open water bottom time
– A minimum of three (3) open water sidemount dives
Program Content
During academic classes and open water dives the diver will learn how to
– properly assemble and configure sidemount diving equipment
– enter/exit water with and without cylinders
– perform bubble checks
– perform valve checks
– manage gas by switching regulators
– share gas – “S” drill procedure
– perform valve shutdowns combined with regulator switches to opposite cylinder
– perform neutral buoyancy drills
– perform cylinder rear clip removal
– shoot a lift bag/surface marker buoy
Program Duration
Note:
We teach the Open Water Sidemount Diver course either following the standards of IANTD (International Association of Nitrox and Technical Divers) or PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors).