rstofer
Contributor
Thanks for your very thorough post, Richard. However, I have to disagree with the above statement...specifically, that which is bolded. This is incorrect, as many BCDs which have Air2 connections also have other air dump pulls, eliminating the need to remove the Air2 regulator from your mouth, causing the individual to hold their breath. As well, it is taught in ALL OW courses which I have taken or observed that you never hold your breath, and should always be exhaling small bubbles, even while remaining in a static position (or seemingly so) to prevent lung overexpansion problems.
But by no means do ALL BCs have multiple dump valves. In fact, there are new BCs on the market where the rear lower valve is optional at additional cost. And it's of dubious value on ascent.
My SeaQuest ADVi has only one valve - the one with the AIR II. It had the advantage of having a pull cable but even that won't work very well with the AIR II in your mouth. How in the world could you extend the hose enough to pull the cable while still holding the regulator in your mouth? I was willing to concede that it MIGHT be possible. Now I'm not so sure. Have you every actually done it? I haven't! Shame on me for not thinking this through and testing it. Maybe I'll jump in the pool this weekend and give it a try. Just for giggles...
I'd be willing to bet that nobody has ever tried to vent their BC with an AIR II in their mouth. Sure, I tried filling the BC, that's easy.
I realize everyone was trained not to hold their breath. Even in the old days NAUI taught us that! That's not the point. What you have is an unusual situation, one for which you have probably NEVER practiced and there is a POSSIBILITY that your training doesn't stick. It's the same thing with looking up while ascending. There is anecdotal evidence to suggest that it may result in the diver holding their breath. Again, it should never happen but it is worth mentioning. Over and over...
And that 5 dive PADI Rescue training class? The one where both the rescuer and victim were briefed on exactly what to do? Somehow I doubt that a real OOA incident will work out as planned. Maybe it's just me but I imagine a really ugly debacle in which it is just a matter of luck if either diver survives.
The idea of handing the OOA diver your primary while grabbing your necklace mounted octo just seems a little too 'canned' to me. Sure, it's the method I plan to use but I won't be surprised when the plan goes out the window.
Richard
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