Self Reliance

[Doc]

Can the truly self-reliant diver ever get into trouble, that is, get into a situation where she or he has to rely on her or his buddy for safety or even survival?

Taken as an argument in logic, the answer would have to be "no". Reality and unforseen situations would dictate otherwise.

This whole thread seems spurred more by vacant ideology, and not common sense or actual diving practices.

Ahh, Grasshopper. Tell us more, "socialist"77 (It fits, lad!)

Obviously all divers should strive to be as self-reliant as possible, but there's a good reason why all the major certifying agencies teach the buddy system -- because it's safer.

That and the cumbersome legal system. What is in place is not possible to change. Look at the computer vs r.d.p. arguments... and lo- the "solo diver certification". Which certifying agency has the most to lose, the most to gain. Status quo... or no?

At the heart of the buddy system are a set of mutual responsibilities.

Implicit in your equation is the outstanding abilities of those buddies. Vigilant and rescue diver trained that the are! (or... not!)

Also, when enrolled in a scuba class, your instructor bears some responsibility for your safety.

More than any buddy you will ever dive with. Levels of care and standards of judgement are astronomically higher for a professional.

This isn't meant to be a commentary on any recent thread or any effort to shift blame to a buddy or divemaster or instructor instead of admitting individual culpability, just a simple statement of basic facts.

No need to apologize or explain. Your answers and questions are right on track. We should have more discussions atthis level.

Just as we all come here to learn, understand that what may seem as "basic fact" to you today may become very flexible and situational in a few more years.

On most recreational dives I do today, there are but three people I know who could be in the water that could assist me. (They have the physical stamina and expertise to attempt "CPR" in the water).

If I'm going mucking about where things go bump in the night I always have that 6' of 1" nylon strap in my b.c., a john-line between me and my very best friend. One of us has a crowbar, the other bolt cutters.

That's the kind of help I might need. It is situation specific.