Choosing a diving center in Aqaba
Warning signs to look out for when choosing a diving center in Aqaba
Diving is a somewhat safe sport, as you have undoubtedly heard many times before. But not every dive center is as concerned about safety as others. To make an informed decision about who to dive with and when to say no, you must be aware of the warning signs.
The undersea environment is enjoyable, thrilling, and fascinating. Even it can occasionally be a little intimidating and frightening. This makes it simple to overlook safety considerations, and you might not even consider that certain dive shops may not be providing the greatest care for you.
In this post we go over the 10 warning signs to look out when choosing a dive center in Aqaba, so you can stay safe and enjoy your dives.
Highlights: Choosing a diving center in Aqaba
Top-notch diving facilities make equipment investments. It may be a sign of the training center's attitude toward safety if you find diving equipment that seems worn out, outdated, or defective. A well-kept setup ought to be something that cannot be compromised. You can get a better understanding of how the center handles its equipment by asking to inspect its equipment room. Is everything neatly hanging up and allowed to dry properly in between dives?
All diving instructors must have valid certifications organizations such as PADI. If the center's staff cannot provide there certifications or seem evasive when asked, its best to consider other options. The diving center should also have a membership license to prove that they are currently affiliated with a training agency for that calendar year.
Despite its importance, hygiene is frequently disregarded. In addition to posing a health danger, an unclean dive center may also be an indication of general poor management. The same facility might be disorganized; you might see that the reception room is cluttered and disorderly, with paperwork scattered across the desk and equipment on the floor. It's unlikely that the center can safely undertake a dive.
Ask to see where they fill tanks. Does everything looks clean, rust free and does the air inside the room seems clean? Ensure the compressor is not in a location where it may take in polluted air such as dirt from road, car pollution, smoking area, etc.
Some diving centers may just accept word that you are scuba certified, without actually asking to see a certification. Additionally, you may be taken on a dive that is not suitable to your experience level. Quality instruction requires focus and commitment. If the staff seems rushed, distracted, or uninterested, this could indicate a lack of professionalism.
While it might be more profitable for a center to have larger groups, this practice can significantly decrease the level of supervision and overall safety. The reputable dive center will keep group sizes manageable for the benefit of the divers. A manageable dive group will vary depending on the conditions and dive sites. As well as divers' experience levels, so it is not always easy to judge. But if you feel that the dive professional is not able to assist you when needed due the number of divers, then the group is probable too big.
Of cause, reviews must be taken with a pinch of salt. Some people like to see the negative in everything and also not everyone's opinion is the same. Check online reviews and ask around within the diving community. If you notice a pattern of negative feedback, especially regarding treatment and safety, or hear about poor experience, it is worst reconsidering your choice.
Safety should be the topmost priority for any diving center. If the instructors dismiss safety rules or dont take the time to explain them, its a clear sign that you should look elsewhere. For example, they might encourage you to di a dive above your experience level or not suggest you to do a scuba refresher, even after a year or more of not diving. Ultimately it is up on you, and if you refuse refresher, the center can still take you diving.
A thorough dive briefing should be standard part of every dive. If the center rushes through this vital step or neglect it entirely, it is a clear indication of a lack of regard for safety. A good briefing should not only include what you might see underwater. It should also give you an idea of the conditions, how to react to possible situations that might arise, as well as explain the emergency procedures of the dive center.
Are you not greeted in a friendly way? Or your concerns ignored and you are told not to worry, without getting an explanation or being out at ease? Are you been put in a dive group that does not match your skill set? Trust your feeling and dont dive with this center. Your safety and enjoyment are always paramount. When choosing a dive center, take your time and make sure you select a reputable and professional operation that values your wellbeing above all else. Stay safe and happy diving!