This article will cover the Standard Procedures for rescue of surface supplied divers. This article also includes CPR and identification of a drowning diver. Before you attempt a dive rescue, it is best to obtain a complete certification. It will help you save the lives and property of other divers during an emergency. This article also covers the importance of finding the victim and performing CPR on the unconscious diver.
Standard procedure for salvaging a surface-supplied diver
Rescuers need to act quickly if a surface-sealed diver is in danger and take him or her 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. However, there are times when it may not be possible to reach the diver through the bell, so rescue divers must modify their response to meet the situation.
Securing the umbilicals is the first step to rescue. The bell should be reached by the diver from the end 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 bell, divers may also be supplied using the individual umbilicals. To avoid snagging, the umbilicals of the diver will need to be secured.
The dive supervisor and the diver's tender must give instructions to 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.
How to identify a lost diver
It can be challenging to identify a lost diver. However, there are many methods that you can use to help find them. First, contact the local authorities. In this instance, the diver was reported missing June 17th 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, Korompis' and his partner were not found.
Another way to find a lost diver, is to use a MOB system. The device transmits a distress signal using an underwater radio signal. However, the device is only functional if the signal is received by nearby vessels. It is highly recommended that this device be used, however it is not always possible. Some boats don't have AIS technology so they won't be able track a missing diver. SAR services can assist a diver if they have an AIS device.
Performing CPR on an unresponsive diver
CPR may be performed if the diver stops 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. Give two rescue breaths if breathing stops. Repeat the process two to three more times.
It is important that you don't attempt to rescue the diver's bell during CPR. This could cause blood pooling. Keep breathing rescue until the diver is conscious again. Transferring the diver to a decompression chamber may be necessary. 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. Alternating between rescue breaths, and 30 chest compressions, if the diver has stopped breathing, is possible. Alternate the breathing patterns for maximum 30 seconds.