This article describes the Standard Procedure of Rescue for Surface Supply Divers. This article covers CPR and identification of lost divers. Before you attempt a dive rescue, it is best to obtain a complete certification. You will be able to save other divers' lives in an emergency. It also covers how to find the victim and perform CPR on an unconscious diver.
Standard procedure for rescue of 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 typically a dive bell or an area where the diver cannot drown and first aid can be provided. It is possible to reach a diver using the bell at times, but rescue divers need to adjust their response to accommodate the situation.
The first step to rescue is to ensure the divers' umbilicals are secure. The bell should be reached by the diver from the end where the umbilical enters. The surface tender should follow the umbilical of the diver out of the bell. Depending on the bell, divers may also be supplied using the individual umbilicals. The diver's umbilicals will need to be secured to avoid snagging.
The dive supervisor and the diver's tender must give instructions to the rescuers. While a diver being rescued may have other duties, a standby dive should be available to render assistance to the diver in an emergency. It is important to maintain regular contact with the diver, both audio and physically, during this procedure.
Identifying 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. Contact the authorities first. In this case, the diver was reported missing on June 17 in Mukilteo, Washington. Police and fire departments responded to this call. Coast Guard divers and sheriff's officers searched the area. They could not find Korompis or his companion.
An alternative method to find a lost diver is using a MOB unit. This device sends out distress signals using an underwater radio. However, the device only works if nearby vessels receive the signal. Although it is recommended to use this device, it is not always practical. Some boats lack AIS technology which makes it difficult for them to find a lost diver. SAR services can assist a diver if they have an AIS device.
CPR for an unresponsive diver
CPR can be used to revive a diver who isn't breathing. By sliding your hand under the diver’s arm, or reaching up to hold his/her breathing equipment, you can open the airway. Then, pinch the diver's nose and roll him or her towards you. If breathing is not returning, you can give two rescue sighs and continue the procedure two to three additional times.
It is important to not attempt to retrieve the bell of the diver during CPR. It could lead to blood pooling. You should continue to rescue breathe until the diver can regain consciousness. This may require transferring the diver to a decompression chamber on deck. CPR is a complex task that can be performed on a diver who is not responding to commands. However, it is necessary.
Positive buoyancy can be used to bring the diver to the surface if you can see his pulse. This will let you assess the condition of your diver and determine whether he requires rescue breathing. You can alternate rescue breaths with 30 chest compressions if the diver isn't breathing. Alternate the breathing patterns for maximum 30 seconds.