annie
Contributor
As Divemasterwill says - the main reason someone would want to ditch their weights is at the surface.
If a diver has a problem with getting buoyant on the surface because they've run out of air or have a leaking BC - they will sink and you can't hold them up even if you're right beside them. Standard surface emergency procedure - drop the weights. Not to mention if you have to tow them and you're in a hurry - drop the weights.
I know that it's not really taught until PADI rescue but it's very important.
But to answer your question - I don't know really if dropping the 4 lbs in front is enough. I guess you should try trying to stay bouyant on the surface with an empty BC and 8lb. Personally I would want all of them to be droppable in case of an emergency.
Divers who have the end of their weight belts tucked back into their belts drive me nuts. To ditch weights, pull on the end of the belt, grab belt as buckle is opening, hold well clear of body and let go - you don't want it tangled in your fins either.
If a diver has a problem with getting buoyant on the surface because they've run out of air or have a leaking BC - they will sink and you can't hold them up even if you're right beside them. Standard surface emergency procedure - drop the weights. Not to mention if you have to tow them and you're in a hurry - drop the weights.
I know that it's not really taught until PADI rescue but it's very important.
But to answer your question - I don't know really if dropping the 4 lbs in front is enough. I guess you should try trying to stay bouyant on the surface with an empty BC and 8lb. Personally I would want all of them to be droppable in case of an emergency.
Divers who have the end of their weight belts tucked back into their belts drive me nuts. To ditch weights, pull on the end of the belt, grab belt as buckle is opening, hold well clear of body and let go - you don't want it tangled in your fins either.
