Do you "wet" your tank band?

[mars2u]

During some recent trips, I've noticed that some people don't "wet" their tank band before attaching their tank to their BCD. (And "No" I don't mean pee on it...that only works for some stings :54: )

During my OW class my instructor recommended this to help keep the tank secured since the tank band can become loose and cause the tank to slip. Yes I've seen this as I'm sure some of you have. This in turn causes the "duck feet" syndrom of having your tank between the back of your legs and trying to get your bcd off before you cause any damage or even worse...personal injury.

If you have any stories to share...it would be great. Luckily a buddy of mines didn't slip too far on a dive which could have caused some broken toes...ouch!

 

[5615mike]

yes, always

 

[iflyprops]

I never wet the bands on my zeagle and have never had a problem. I have had friends who have had problems if they don't wet their bands though, my guess is that the strap material may vary from manufacturer to manufacturer. I still like my dual strap system over the single straps that I see out there, just seems more stable to me, that also may have something to do with it.

 

[CBulla]

in all my dives, getting the band wet before hand is nearly impractical and to date, I have not had any experince of slippage.

 

[MCL]

every time, except when I forget. Not had a problem yet.

 

[Bob]

I never wet the bands on my zeagle and have never had a problem. I have had friends who have had problems if they don't wet their bands though, my guess is that the strap material may vary from manufacturer to manufacturer. I still like my dual strap system over the single straps that I see out there, just seems more stable to me, that also may have something to do with it.

Ditto, never had a problem with my Ranger. I have seen and helped divers readjust their tank after the single cam band slipped and let their tank drop down. almtree: Bob

 

[glbirch]

Always, when possible. I've seen tanks come loose in mid-dive, and it ain't pretty, especially with someone who's bouyancy control isn't what it should be. Also one of the reasons I far prefer a double-band style BC over single-band, since it seems to happen predominantly to the single-band BC's. I would suspect that not getting the band as tight as possible to start with also contributes to the problem.

 

[diverrick]

first time I forgot, both my wifes tank and my own slipped. lucky we were still fooling around near the ramp, so it was more of a nusance. Now I do it ever time.

 

[gj62]

Usually, my band gets wet when I am in the water. I've tried to keep it dry, but without much success...

Nope - never had a problem...

 

[saintsfan]

i have only had my tank slip once the very first dive with my seaquest balance,wouldnt you know it it was my 1st time diving with a weight integrated bc and had never practiced removing it under water,not a huge problem but i knew better.