General Considerations and Reminders - PADI Search & Recovery

PADI SEARCH & RECOVERY * General considerations and reminders – all search patterns a. Begin a search pattern at a specific location within the established search area. Identify this location with a buoy and anchor or a marker on the bottom. b. Use the simplest search pattern that will work. c. When using compass-based search patterns use the cardinal compass points – N, S, E and W – on the long sides of the pattern to simplify search pattern headings. Underwater navigation is the backbone of search and recovery. d. In a two person dive team, it’s often most effective if one diver navigates the pattern while the other looks for the object. e. When following a pattern underwater, keep track of your relative position and a sketch of the pattern on a slate or a Nav-Finder. The Nav-Finder is one of the most effective ways to do this. f. To assist navigation, note natural and artificial references while swimming a pattern underwater. g. On a large area search, it may help to place bottom markers (heavy wire with small flags attached, small floating buoys with line and weights, piled stones, etc.) as underwater references that mark areas you’ve searched. Be sure to clean the bottom of these markers when the dive is complete. h. Avoid stirring up silt while swimming a pattern because this hampers the search. Avoid contact with the bottom. 1. Keep fins pointed upward – diving slightly buoyant (with your BCD – not under weighted) can help with this. 2. When you stop, remain level or head down in the water and avoid fi n movement. 3. Use buoyancy to begin ascents initially rather than swimming. j. Review communications and establish any special signals specific to swimming a particular pattern. k. When boat traffic in the search area is heavy or other individuals are involved in the search, consider towing a surface fl oat with a locally recognized dive flag to let others know where you are. l. Small metal objects may sink into soft silt or sand, or water movement may bury them. You may want to use an underwater metal detector as you follow the search pattern. Plan the pattern so you don’t leave any gaps in the area you cover with the detector. Be aware that metal detectors are restricted in many areas – follow local laws and regulations. • Pay attention to basic diver safety procedures. Check your air regularly and often, and maintain contact with your buddy. Include what to do if separated in your dive planning. n. When using your compass, remember that metal objects may cause reading variations that affect your search pattern.