I am about to start a rescue scuba diver course PADI in my case. I noticed from previous courses that if I collect info before this doesn't seem to "spoil" the course. I mean I feel I can still manage to follow my own instructor who could have a slightly different approach without being influenced by what others already told me
What are the main topics and skills to learn in this course? Based on your experience, which suggestions would you give to those who take it? For example, common mistakes, or skills that people could learn but not be able to apply when it's really necessary, etc.
Thanks
A few points which may seem obvious, but...
1 Stop, breathe, think then act. People do strange things when the adrenaline starts flowing. A few extra seconds to evaluate and plan a course of action. It can make all the difference.
2 Get your sh!t together! No, I don't mean that in a rude way, I mean literally get your kit all together and in easy reach. It's always funny to watch rescue students racing around looking for a fin here, a fin there, mask over there... Each time you exit the water make sure your kit is built, tested and ready before you take a break. That goes for rescue kit as well. There's no point grabbing the O2 only to find the cylinder is empty or the continuous flow hose is missing.
3. Work together as a team. It's quite normal to see one person take over and try to manage everything whilst others stand by and let them get on with it. Don't be afraid to delegate, and that can be to bystanders as well.
4. Don't get in the water unless you have too! A shore or boat entry is always a better option.
5 Listen carefully to the site brief, particularly the safety section. Where are the life rings, throw lines, etc. If not available, what other items can you use.
6 Do not, I mean DO NOT, get within reach of a panicked diver. Get too close and the panicked diver (usually a DM) will see you as fair game.
7. Enjoy it. This will be your opportunity to make mistakes and learn from them. Nobody does a perfect rescue, but after the course you'll be in a much better position to help either yourself or someone else.
Good luck and keep us posted.