pentiumchic,
I have made a statement like that. I don't remember which thread but I remember the qualifications. Let me state a couple of abservations first.
Most divers with little training don't seem very well prepared as far as skill and knowledge. Many get an OW card as a pass on to the vacation boats they usually dive on. That's ok but they, IMO, are only prepared to dive under some level of supervision.
If a diver needs to be supervised and they don't care enough about ME to get a little extra training and practice a few skills, why would I dive with them? Of course, I'm not refering to a new diver who hasen't had time to complete that level of training but there are many who are content to remain ignorant. If I dive with those folks I am working. In this country it's customary to get paid when you work.
I know a middle aged overweight couple who got certified. They dive on vacation and locally once or twice a year. They still don't dive very well. Everytime I see them they ask the same questions. For a long time they repeatedly invited me out night diving. They said they were ready to try it. They were clear about not wanting a class but they wanted to do their first night dive with me. If one of them ever has a problem all the other will be able to do is SCREAM. Sorry, I don't want to be there.
I didn't create our current training system but as it is until a diver progresses to a certain level (maybe rescue) and then only if they had some good instructors they need to be led on tours and taken care of.
Will you answer th following questions?
Do you care enough about the people you dive with to get some first aid training? Do you care enough about your buddy to learn O2 administration? Can you quickly and efficiently organize and conduct a search for you missing buddy? Are you able to asses others qualifications to assist you and assign them appropriate tasks? Can you get your unconciouse buddy to the surface without hurting them more or hurting yourself? Can you transport your buddy in the water while protecting their airway and preparing them for egress? Can you get you disabled buddy out of the water while providing rescue breaths? If your buddy is missing can you manage the scene to give them the best chance they can get? I know many divers who just don't care or assume someone else will do it.
I can do these things and practice the skills regularly. I am only asking those I dive with to give me the same chance I have given them. Is it too much to ask? Is it wort a few dollars? A little effort?