Solo Divers Make Better Buddies
Because of the way a solo diver has to prepare for a dive, it's
simply not an aspect of diving that's suitable for everyone. If you are a
careless diver who leaves things to chance, this type of diving isn't for you.
During the following chapters, we will discuss in more detail how a solo diver
manages the risks outlined above; and we will see that if properly practiced,
solo diving is a disciplined form of scuba rooted in careful planning and
self-sufficiency. Solo diving does not require antisocial tendencies and a death
wish. It requires the proper gear, training, and a balanced honest attitude.
Practicing independent diving helps to create people who are skilled
divers, attentive partners and divers capable of self and buddy
rescue.
Solo diving is an alternative for the advanced
recreational diver and in that sense is scarcely different from any other form
of specialty dive training. The reason is the goal is to allow experienced
divers the freedom to explore their sport to its fullest. Many graduates from
SDI solo training have no intentions of diving alone, but want to use the
techniques and skills learned in the course to be better buddies. Even more
importantly, when these divers are accidentally separated from their buddies,
solo training makes them less likely to become statistics in support of the
buddy system.
Introduction
Buddy System Has Basic Flaws
Solo Diving and Risk Management
Solo Divers Make Better Buddies
When Not to Dive Solo